Good news: Rassie Erasmus happy to have star who is a ‘big factor on the advantage line’ back
Springboks number eight Jasper Wiese will be determined to make up for lost time when he returns to action for the world champions against the All Blacks in Johannesburg on Saturday.
The 28-year-old served a six-match suspension following his red card in his final appearance for Leicester Tigers in a Premiership match against Exeter Chiefs in May.
A serial offender
Unfortunately, Wiese is a serial offender as he has received several yellow and red cards during his career so he could not rely on a good disciplinary record as a mitigating factor at his disciplinary hearing.
His latest indiscretion was the fourth time in the past six months that he was red carded, which means he will make his first appearance for the Springboks since last year’s Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand in France.
He admitted that it was difficult to be part of the Springboks squad while not being available for selection for their Tests.
“It was a frustrating, but I was able to be happy with the team the last few weeks. I missed six games, which is a long time,” Wiese told reporters.
‘Foul play not a feature of the Springboks team’
“You’re going to make mistakes, it’s inevitable. But foul play is certainly not a feature of the Springboks team.
“Jasper knows very well that if he plays cautious rugby or holds back on the field, he will not be selected.
“I am very happy to have him back in the team. He is very physical and a big factor on the advantage line.”
