Rugby Union: South African's life ban

A SOUTH AFRICAN player has been banned for life after being found guilty of biting the ear of an opponent.

The ban was imposed on Wittes Buitendach, the captain of the Diggers club, by a South African Rugby Football Union disciplinary tribunal after he allegedly bit the Pirates hooker Craig Miller in a recent club match.

Miller received 128 stitches during plastic surgery to repair the ear, which was virtually severed from his head.

One player described looking up to see Buitendach shaking his head 'like a wild animal' with blood running from his mouth.

The ban means that Buitendach will be prevented from having any further association with the sport in any capacity, ranging from serving on a committee to coaching rugby or being made welcome at grounds or clubs affiliated to the SARFU.

Buintendach, who represented Transvaal six times between 1985 and 1992, denied any part in the incident and said he would appeal against the ban.