Bok scrumhalf gets four-game ban

NEWS: Saracens' new scrumhalf Ivan van Zyl will miss the start of the 2021/2022 Premiership season.

The Springbok appeared before an online independent disciplinary panel for foul play during a pre-season friendly.

He was sent off by referee Frank Murphy in the 51st minute of the match between Ulster and Saracens on Friday, September 3 in Belfast. This was for tackling the jumper in the air, contrary to World Rugby Law 9.17.

Saracens won the match 45-21.

Van Zyl accepted the charge and was given a four-match suspension by the independent disciplinary panel comprising Jeremy Summers (chair) with Becky Essex and Tony Wheat.

He is free to play again on October 5.

He will not be involved in Saracens' second friendly against Ulster on Thursday.

The 26-year-old will then miss Saracens' first two Premiership matches against Bristol Bears and Leicester Tigers.

He will also miss a friendly against Ealing Trailfinders.

The full judgement can be found here: bit.ly/3yXSVoj