Nasty play is definitely getting short changed at this year's tournament - so far. How refreshing that what we see on TV is seen in the same light by the citing officers and duly punished. Interestingly, in Burger's case, he was praised for his "excellent conduct" during the hearing. What's all that about ref?
In fact, here's the bit from Sporting Life:
Burger pleaded not guilty to the charge, arguing the contact had occurred "between two players attempting to win possession".
However, judicial officer Terry Willis saw it otherwise.
An official World Cup statement read: "The judicial officer [JO] determined that Burger executed a reckless and sloppy tackle that was high and dangerous whilst the opposing player was in the air and therefore in a vulnerable position.
"There were no aggravating circumstances. However, there were several mitigating factors, including Burger's remorse in relation to the incident, his excellent conduct during the hearing and his good disciplinary record.
"During 34 Tests for South Africa, 42 Super 14 games and 22 Currie Cup games for his province, he had never been before a disciplinary committee for such an offence.
"The JO determined the offence to be at the mid range of seriousness. The entry point (suspension) for a mid-range offence is six matches.
"However, the JO decided in this case the suspension should be four matches in light of the mitigating factors."
Burger has had his chips.
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