Stormers lock Adre Smith is looking at a 12-week ban after being cited for an alleged biting incident during his team’s loss to Munster in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship this past Saturday.

The incident took place in the 45th minute of the match, in the buildup to a try scored by Munster lock Jean Kleyn.

During the play, Smith and Munster hooker Niall Scannell were tussling on the ground. Scannell then got up and went to the assistant referee, pointing to his leg.

Referee Andrew Brace referred the incident to the TMO after speaking with both Scannell and Munster captain Peter O’Mahony, but replays showed no conclusive evidence. Brace then informed O’Mahony that the incident would be left to the citing commissioner, if any foul play was suspected.

Smith’s disciplinary hearing will take place on Thursday after citing commissioner Helen O’Reilly made an official complaint of foul play against him.

“The player has been cited under Law 9.12 – A player must not physically or verbally abuse anyone,” a URC statement read. “Physical abuse includes, but is not limited to, biting, punching, contact with the eye or eye area, striking with any part of the arm [including stiff-arm tackles], shoulder, head or knee[s], stamping, trampling, tripping or kicking.

“The player will face a disciplinary panel via videoconference, the panel will comprise of sheriff Kathrine Mackie (chair), Iain Leslie (both Scotland) and Janet Gedrych (Wales).”

If he is found guilty, Smith could be suspended for a minimum of 12 weeks – not including mitigation – with the high entry point at 24 weeks.

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