Springboks wing Makazole Mapimpi has been accused of eye gouging during the Sharks’ 42-22 victory over Cardiff in the United Rugby Championship (URC) fixture.

The 34-year-old, who is a two-time World Cup champion, was in determined mood at the Arms Park as the Sharks bounced back from back-to-back Champions Cup losses.

On their return to URC action the Durbanites eventually ran out six-try winners in Cardiff as they secured five points that have strengthened their position on the league table.

Mapimpi moment

However, much of the aftermath from Saturday’s victory has centred around Mapimpi as footage has emerged of him tangling with Cardiff‘s replacement hooker Efan Daniel.

The incident took place after referee Mike Adamson had blown his whistle for a penalty offence and Daniel decided to play on and attempt a cheeky chip kick over the wing.

Mapimpi, in turn, went to tackle the hooker before the pair grappled angrily and Daniel then pulled the Springbok star’s jersey up over his head so that he became shirtless.

That is when the contentious moment took place as the veteran Sharks player has been accused of making contact with Daniel’s eye, with the video currently circulating on X.

Many have reacted to the incident, including TheDynamoFM who commented: “Throw the book at him – harshest punishment possible. Gouging is an absolute no-go for me!”

Jon had a similar view, writing on the platform: “Hope the citing commissioner is paying attention. One of the vilest acts of thuggery you can commit. Throw the book at him.”

However, the 2019 and 2023 World Cup winner did get some support on the social media website, as Greg Phips wrote: “Where? He’s holding the jersey – impossible.”

Support for Bok

Mr Thando wrote in reply to the posted video: “Honestly simmer down, not like he’s scraping the dudes eyes out and if it was the other way around same thing applies.”

The fixture itself was a heated occasion and Mapimpi had earlier celebrated in front of two Cardiff players after scoring a try, which did not go down well with the Welsh pair.

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He was not alone in riling up the opposition as rising Wales star Tom Bowen pointed at Sharks flanker Phepsi Buthelezi en route to claiming his second try of Saturday’s game.