British & Irish Lions full back Stuart Hogg has come under scrutiny over a potential bite on Springboks star Willie Le Roux during Saturday’s Test match in Cape Town.
In the aftermath of Cheslin Kolbe’s collision with Conor Murray in the first half, Le Roux and Hogg were at the centre of a standoff between both sets of players on the far touchline.
However while no foul play was picked up by the officials, Le Roux looked outraged after Hogg appeared to bite him on the arm.
Slomo looks bad pic.twitter.com/oPtRZtWaJz
— Province Fan (@ProvinceFan) July 31, 2021
The incident is likely to be reviewed during the week and if found guilty, Hogg could be facing a lengthly ban for his actions.
Hogg, 29, took to social media to deny all allegations of biting, saying: “Following speculation that has surfaced online, I would like to categorically deny any foul play in last night’s game. I would never bite an opponent and I am annoyed and upset by this unsubstantiated accusation. I’ve always been proud of playing rugby in the spirit of the game.
“Respect to the Springboks for their deserved win yesterday. The squad is hurting after last night’s defeat, but it’s all to play for next week. It’s going to be a cup final and everyone’s going to be up for it.”
Stuart Hogg has released a statement through the Lions following allegations of a bite on Willie le Roux.
He categorically denies any foul play. pic.twitter.com/lDIx3MtTxv
— Murray Kinsella (@Murray_Kinsella) August 1, 2021
Elsewhere Lions lock Maro Itoje has been called out for the questionable use of his knee on Damian De Allende’s neck as tempers boiled over in Cape Town.
Not a great look from Maro Itoje is it #LionsRugby pic.twitter.com/6rdhCAncjr
— Andy Goode (@AndyGoode10) July 31, 2021
However despite the feisty first half between the sides, it was the Springboks who came away with a 27-9 win to level the Test series with one match left to play. Full match highlights are available below:
REACTION:
Stuart Hogg biting is the Louis Suarez moment of rugby. 😂 https://t.co/x1UiIycYqA
— Rebellia (@darthdevi) August 1, 2021
Bizarre can’t believe he is biting him.
Stuart Hogg accused of biting Willie le Roux as footage goes viral https://t.co/bNBHNTIoWx— DM (@patchdennizen) August 1, 2021
Stuart Hogg prepares for the third test pic.twitter.com/A0rN0smVmB
— Antony Altbeker (@antonyaltbeker) August 1, 2021
@stuarthogg please explain yourself? https://t.co/LWsmmUqH3b
— Jonno (@JonnoElliott) August 1, 2021
This doesn’t look great and the citing officer will no doubt be the busiest man in Cape Town today #lionsrugby https://t.co/szFwyj0Gl3
— Jonny Fordham 🏉📰 (@SunJonnyFordham) August 1, 2021
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