Rassie Erasmus has reacted to the ‘Winkgate’ incident, defending Springbok Jaden Hendrikse and emphasizing the importance of sportsmanship and respect.

DRAMATIC MATCH RECAP

In extremely unusual circumstances on Saturday, the Sharks progressed to the URC semi-final after a goal-kicking ‘shootout’ that featured Springbok duo Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse and rookie Bradley Davids.

After both regulation and extra time, the scores remained level between the Sharks and Munster at Kings Park, meaning the game had to be decided by three kickers from each side.

In the end, the Sharks nailed all six of their shots at goal from various positions around the field, while just the solitary miss from Munster sent them out of the competition.

BACKGROUND: THE ‘WINKGATE’ INCIDENT

However, there was a controversial moment midway through the ‘shootout’ when Springbok Jaden Hendrikse went down with what seemed to be cramp, but as he lay on the floor receiving treatment, the camera showed him giving a cheeky wink to opposing kicker Jack Crowley.

It led to a furious response from Crowley amid some allegations online that Hendrikse had ‘faked’ the cramps and attempted to put off his opponent with gamesmanship.

In its report, the UK Telegraph called it “shameless gamesmanship” from the Sharks and said the quarter-final would always be “remembered for actions of Sharks’ Jaden Hendrikse”.

SPRINGBOK BOSS RASSIE ERASMUS CHIMES IN

In response to the backlash, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus and several others came to the defence of Hendrikse, suggesting it was a comical moment that showed character.

Erasmus, in trademark style, shared a zoomed-in image of the Springbok’s cramping calf, paired with a puzzled emoji; suggesting that he believes the player did indeed suffer from cramp and was not faking an injury to rattle the Munster kickers.

WHAT IS YOUR VIEW ON THE SPRINGBOK PLAYER’S ACTION?

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Src: TheSouthAfrican.com - https://rugga.co.za/rassie-erasmus/rassie-weighs-in-on-springboks-controversial-winkgate-saga/