Stormers reject proposed JJ Kotze ban after red card

The Stormers have rejected a proposed three-week suspension for hooker JJ Kotze following his red card against Bristol Bears in the Investec Champions Cup. Kotze was sent off on October 17 at DHL Stadium for a dangerous tackle while defending the try line. A Foul Play Review Committee recommended the ban, leading to a formal disciplinary hearing scheduled for Wednesday, October 21.

The case will be heard via video conference by an independent Disciplinary Committee chaired by England's Daniel Gore. Kotze's dismissal under World Rugby Law 9.13 forced the Cape side down to 14 players, which briefly dropped to 13 after Leolin Zas received a yellow card. The Stormers previously led 21-7 before conceding points and eventually responding with a try from Jonathan Roche.