South Africa flanker Schalk Burger’s appeal against a four-match suspension for a high tackle on Samoa scrumhalf Junior Polu will be heard on Thursday.
A South African team spokesperson said the hearing had been set for 06h00 GMT in Paris.
Springbok coach Jake White was shocked at Burger’s ban, handed out in the early hours of Wednesday. The player said he was contesting the ball when he collided with Polu in the air.
Burger will not play again in the World Cup unless the Springboks reach the semifinals or the ban is overturned.
Terry Willis, the judicial officer, decided that Burger ”executed a reckless and sloppy tackle that was high and dangerous”, according to the tournament’s website.
The offence carries a two- to 10-week suspension with Willis deciding that the offence was in the mid-range of seriousness. Burger’s remorse, his excellent conduct during the hearing and his good disciplinary record were taken into mitigation. — Reuters