Rugby Union: RFU cries foul over law: Dispute over Callard incident in SA

THE Rugby Football Union has called for a change in the rules governing foul play in the wake of its inquiry into the incidents during England's stormy match against Eastern Province during the recent tour of South Africa.

The England full-back, Jonathan Callard, was kicked in the head and needed 27 stitches, but his assailant, Elandre van der Berg, escaped punishment because the South African RFU could not prove his act was 'wilful'. The RFU wants the word deleted from the relevant law.

The RFU executive committee's statement said: 'The appalling injury was of serious concern and deeply regretted. The RFU noted the finding that it was not a wilful act of violence, although it was certainly reckless and dangerous.'