In the third Lions’ Test, the wretched Springboks wore armbands in support of one of their forwards, who was banned for a misdemeanour in the previous test, and the International Rugby Board (IRB) charged them with an improper gesture. Big deal! 

For the last ten years to my certain knowledge, up to and including the eye-gouging which also featured in the second Test, the Springboks have made it clear that, if they look like losing, they feel entitled to use physical violence of an illegal sort to reduce the opposition to manageable proportions, and the IRB has done nothing to stop them. 

International Rugby Union will never be a force for good as long as this festering sore is allowed to poison all who come into contact with it. On the contrary it will continue to broadcast the message throughout the sporting world that foul play is a valid last line of defence. IRB, where are you hiding? Why are you hiding?