The incomprehensible act, all the more so as the outcome of the match was already sealed, sparked widespread outrage, including within the South African camp. World Rugby’s regulations are extremely clear: any “intentional contact with the eye or eye area“, which the slow-motion pictures clearly showed, can bring sanctions of up to 208 weeks’ suspension. The double world champion from South Africa is therefore exposed to a ban running until 2029.

Despite that scandalous finish, the Springboks round off their autumn tour on a dazzling sporting note. But Etzebeth’s likely absence for several months could badly tarnish the image of a world champion side often celebrated for its intensity, yet criticised for its off-field affairs (doping in particular) and its lack of fair play. The case is now in the hands of the disciplinary committee, which will have to decide whether the living legend deserves an exemplary sanction (or not).