England prop Joe Marler has expressed disbelief at the four-match ban handed to Springbok centre Andre Esterhuizen, which could potentially be reduced to three.

Esterhuizen was red-carded for a head-on collision with Portugal’s Jose Lima during their Test match last Saturday.

Initially shown a yellow card by Scottish referee Hollie Davidson, the decision was upgraded after a bunker review. The incident occurred just three minutes into the game, and Portugal capitalized on their numerical advantage to score the opening try. Despite the early setback, the Springboks, featuring seven debutants, rallied to secure a 64-21 victory in Bloemfontein.

Marler took to social media to voice his frustration, calling the decision “complete and utter poppy bollocks.”

The ban effectively rules Esterhuizen out of the Springboks’ Rugby Championship campaign in Australia next month. With Damian de Allende, Jesse Kriel, and Lukhanyo Am selected as centres, and Handré Pollard and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu capable of covering inside centre, the team has options to fill the void.

Esterhuizen, who rejoined the Sharks earlier this year, will serve his ban in the Currie Cup. He will miss matches against the Lions, Pumas, and Griquas, with the possibility of a fourth match if he fails to complete a coaching intervention program. The player has 48 hours to appeal the sanction.