VIDEO: Canada lock's big gesture to Springboks

WATCH as Canada lock Josh Larsen showed nothing but class after being red-carded during his side's 7-66 defeat to South Africa.

Having come on as a substitute early in the game, he did not last long on the pitch before a shoulder charge to the head of prop Thomas du Toit at a ruck.

This was illegal, but it was not necessarily malicious. The former Otago lock claimed he tried to wrap his arms around and du Toit was already in a low body position, but that is no excuse for what was reckless and dangerous.

Larsen was clearly crestfallen as he left the field, as he left the already struggling Canada in a precarious position.

However, he deserves a huge amount of respect for apologising to South Africa “face to face” in the changing room after the game and wishing them “all the best for the rest of the tournament”.

The apology was warmly received by the Springboks, who shared a beer with Larsen.