Page 33 - Wayne Barnes News Today

South Africa’s top clubs will start a new European journey this weekend as professional rugby in the republic comes closer to completing its move north.

England and South Africa contested the 2019 Rugby World Cup final, but less than a year ahead of its next edition, the two sides are heading in different directions.

There was a serious point from Eddie Jones relating to Rassie Erasmuss toxic criticism of referees, but first - as ever - the hottest of topics generated a light-hearted reaction.

The director of rugby will be serving a ban imposed for social media outbursts as the Springboks seek a first win at Twickenham since 2014

South Africa’s director of rugby has been given a two-game ban over a series of critical tweets about officials.

Rassie Erasmus, the Springboks director of rugby, will complete a two-game matchday ban on Saturday after publishing a series of tweets that appeared to mock decisions made by officials during the Autumn Nations Series.

England coach Eddie Jones said referees had to be treated with respect ahead his team's meeting with a South Africa side who will be without Rassie Erasmus at Twickenham.

Controversy surrounding Rassie Erasmus has continued to engulf South Africa as they announced a reshuffled line-up to face England at Twickenham.

Rassie Erasmus's conduct has made South Africa "so easy to dislike", according to Springboks great John Smit.

Erasmus has been given a two-game matchday ban following his criticism of refereeing decisions during the ongoing Autumn Nations Series.