Guinness Premiership
Brits escapes ban over abusive gesture
Scrum.com
May 18, 2010
Hooker Schalk Brits dives in to score for Saracens, Saracens v Harlequins, Guinness Premiership, Wembley, April 17, 2010
Saracens hooker Schalk Brits pleaded guilty to making a foul and abusive gesture towards Leicester fans © Getty Images
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Saracens' Schalk Brits has avoided a ban after pleading guilty to making a foul and abusive gesture to the crowd during his side's Guinness Premiership clash with Leicester Tigers at Welford Road on May 8.

The South African hooker was summoned to appear before a Rugby Football Union disciplinary panel after appearing to flick a 'v-sign' towards supporters as he was being substituted. However, he has escaped with a reprimand over his future conduct, meaning he is now free to line out for Sarries in Saturday week's Guinness Premiership final against Leicester.

RFU Disciplinary Officer Jeff Blackett commented: "Schalk reacted to something from the crowd and his signal was momentary without any aggression and there was no evidence that he used any abusive language.

"He immediately apologised to the crowd after the game and so there was no adverse reaction. We also received a letter from the Chief Executive of Leicester Tigers Peter Wheeler, who praised his apology and contrite demeanour.

"While we were disappointed with the player's reaction and we reminded him about the core values of rugby, the offence was at the bottom of the scale of seriousness and was not serious enough to merit a suspension from playing."

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