Nico Lee has been cited and appeared before the citing commission on Wednesday morning for an alleged unsavoury incident in the 64th minute of the match against Connacht in Galway.

Early reports coming from Wales indicate that Lee has been suspended for up to 13 weeks for the incident which has been described as an act against the spirit of good sportsmanship.

While the exact duration of Lee’s sanction is yet to be confirmed by the Pro14, it is believed that even if he was cleared, he would have still made way in the number 12 jersey this week.

Speaking to OFM Sport from Cardiff, the coach Franco Smith, confirmed that Janse van Rensburg flew out to Wales after completing his concussion protocol.

“It has been a bit of disruption. We didn’t expect the Nico Lee saga to happen, so there is a bit of disappointment with the regard.

“Fortunately we have Benhard coming across now, and he will slot in straight into the number 13 jersey, while Dries will move over to inside centre.

“Although it is a disruption, we are fortunate that Benhard can fill the gap level by Nico Lee.”

Furthermore, Smith indicated that there are positive that both the loosehead props, Ox Nche (knee) and Charles Marais (food poisoning) will be ready to play this weekend.

Sunday’s game against at Parc y Scarlets in Llanelli kicks off at 15:00.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport