![[VIDEO] Rugby player gets lifetime ban over life-threatening attack on referee](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/05062024/d4c29bdf-6aaa-48b5-8934-c96325ab512c.jpg?operations=fit(480:))
The Namibian player was handed a lifetime ban from playing rugby after an aggressive assault on a match official that has sent shockwaves around the world.
In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through Namibia's rugby community, a player from Grootfontein has been handed a lifetime ban for assaulting a referee during a recent match against the Reho Falcons.
The unnamed player's actions unfolded during a heated moment in the game when the referee issued a yellow card to one of his teammates.
Reacting impulsively, the player launched into a tackle, flooring the referee and halting the match abruptly. Reho Falcons players were visibly stunned by the aggression, quickly intervening to restrain the player.
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The referee, concerned for his safety, called off the match prematurely. Following the incident, the Namibian Rugby Union swiftly took action, imposing a 156-week ban on the player from all rugby-related activities, including coaching and refereeing. Additionally, he has been banned for life from playing the sport.
In a statement posted on social media, the Namibian Rugby Union condemned the player's actions, highlighting the severity of the offence and the potential for serious injury to the match official.
“The NRU reaffirms its commitment to upholding the integrity and safety of the sport and will not tolerate any actions that jeopardise these values,” NRU said in a statement.
The deliberate nature of the attack and its negative repercussions for both the NRU and the sport of rugby internationally were also underscored.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting officials and upholding the integrity of the game, and the swift and decisive action taken by the NRU reinforces their commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all participants in Namibian rugby.
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