Mostert Cleared to Play After Red Card Dismissed

South African lock Franco Mostert has been cleared to play following the dismissal of his red card from the Springboks' victory over Italy, providing relief to the world champions ahead of their match against Ireland this weekend.

The incident occurred just 12 minutes into South Africa's 32-14 win in Turin on November 15, 2025. Referee James Doleman issued a permanent red card to Mostert for a tackle on Italy flyhalf Paolo Garbisi, citing head contact under Law 9.13, which prohibits early, late or dangerous tackles. Doleman, advised by television match official Tual Trainini, determined the action was "always illegal" with no attempt to wrap the arm, ruling out any mitigation despite an initial tackle by teammate Ethan Hooker. The decision left South Africa playing with 14 players for the remainder of the game, the second such occurrence in consecutive weeks after lock Lood de Jager's red card against France.

Mostert appeared via video link before an independent disciplinary committee on Tuesday evening. Chaired by Stephen Hardy of Australia and including former players Ofisa Tonuu of New Zealand and Jamie Corsi of Wales, the panel reviewed footage from multiple angles, along...