World Cup winner Jasper Wiese will miss nearly all of South Africa’s summer internationals due to a six-game suspension following his final match for Leicester Tigers.
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The 28-year-old received a red card during Saturday’s win against Exeter for driving Ross Vintcent head first into the ground at a ruck.
Wiese admitted guilt and was charged with foul play, receiving the minimum suspension for the offence.
The back rower, who played a crucial role off the bench in South Africa’s World Cup final victory against New Zealand in October, will miss the Test against Wales at Twickenham in June, two home games against Ireland, South Africa’s first-ever fixture against Portugal, and the August tour of Australia.
This incident occurred during Wiese’s 79th and final appearance for Leicester.
Prior to the game, he expressed a desire to end his tenure on a positive note. Although the victory was a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season for Leicester, it ultimately turned into a disastrous send-off for Wiese.
Leicester Tigers have confirmed 13 departures this summer
Premiership heavyweights Leicester Tigers are set to farewell a group of senior squad players at the end of the season.
Leicester Tigers general manager, Richard Wilks said: “In professional sport you invariably have to say goodbye to good people at the end of each season and with this group they are all very, very good people.”
“All these lads have made massive contributions to the club. When we look back on the likes of Jasper, Nic and Guy; there’s a lot of pride in their development, becoming international players whilst at the club and they’ll be missed around Oval Park.
“Those guys, Scotty and Franna were also big parts in winning a Premiership title for the club. Those memories will live on past their playing careers.
“We wish all our departing players the best for the future they will always be warmly welcomed back at Leicester Tigers.”
Leicester Tigers summer departures:
- Jasper Wiese to Urayasu D-Rocks
- Phil Cokanasiga to Ospreys
- Guy Porter released
- Dan Richardson released
- Matt Scott released
- Francois van Wyk to Bath
- Nic Dolly to Western Force
- Sam Edwards to Bristol Bears
- Ollie Crane released
- Jacob Cusick released
- Simon Koroiyadi released
- Morgan Meredith released
- Kieran Wilkinson to Newcastle Falcons
Leicester Tigers confirm THREE new signings
Leicester Tigers have kicked off their preparations for the 2024/25 Gallagher Premiership season with a bang, announcing THREE exciting additions to their squad.
The trio includes the arrival of two prominent international talents.
#1. Nicky Smith
The Wales international prop has made more than 170 appearances for the Osprey’s in his professional career to date to go with his 47 international caps for Wales.
A front-rower with an eye for the try line, Smith put in an eye-catching performance for Ospreys against Tigers at Mattioli Woods Welford Road early last year, giving supporters a taste of what’s to come from Smith in a Leicester jersey.
Nicky Smith said: “I’m very excited to be joining Leicester tigers next season.”
“It’s a club which is filled with history and ambition. There have been many world-class players that have worn the famous Tigers jerseys and I’m honoured to get the opportunity to play for one of the biggest clubs in the World.
“I’m looking forward to be running out to the electric atmosphere at Mattioli Woods Welford Road”.
Leicester Tigers general manager, Richard Wilks said: “I was struck by Nicky’s enthusiasm to join Leicester Tigers and his knowledge of our club and previous positive experiences of playing at Mattioli Woods Welford Road, going back many years to playing against Tigers Academy for Wales junior representative teams, really stood out.
“His rugby ability speaks for itself but him wanting to be part of the home team at our home ground with the crowd behind him really resonated.
“We look forward to welcoming Nicky, Kirsty and their boys in July and I’m sure the supporters will take him to their hearts quickly.”