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Leinster explain exactly what happened in Johannesburg airport
By Ian Cameron
Leinster Rugby have issued a mea culpa of sorts after two of their players were denied access to South Africa yesterday.
Isa Nacewa and Jamison Gibson-Park encountered what were termed ‘visa issues’ yesterday in Johannesburg, and the pair were sent home. Both Nacewa and Gibson-Park are New Zealand nationals.
Guy Easterby, Head of Rugby Operations, Leinster Rugby who is in South Africa with the squad has revealed exactly what happened regarding two Leinster players being sent home.
A statement released today reads: "As of 16 January 2017 a visa is required for New Zealand nationals entering South Africa.
"Unfortunately this visa was not applied for by Leinster Rugby on behalf of Jamison Gibson-Park and Isa Nacewa in advance of the squad leaving Dublin Airport on Tuesday afternoon. It was only brought to our attention upon landing into Johannesburg on Wednesday morning that this was now a requirement.
"This was clearly an administrative oversight on our part and a valuable lesson has been learned.
"Nick McCarthy will arrive in later today and for the moment no other player will be called up to the squad.
"The squad is looking forward to the considerable challenge that awaits them against the Southern Kings.”
Leinster play the Southern Kings on Saturday in Port Elizabeth and the Toyota Cheetahs on Friday week in Bloemfontein in Rounds 3 and 4 of the Guinness PRO14.
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Latest Comments
I'd rate the brothers Hendricks a point or two lower. Jaden has really not delivered on his early promise and Jordan's kicking at posts was quite erratic. Amongst other things.
I was really surprised that DuhDuh was replaced and not Jordan. DuhDuh had a great game and just underlined his class in a backline that was not firing on all cylinders.
Damian Willemse was missed. Hopefully he'll be back to full fitness and have an injury free 2025 (and '26 and '27 and so on until he decides to retire to spend time with his grandchildren).
RG was great. What an athlete.
Very happy that Hanekom made his debut at last. He gave a good account of himself and will hopefully grow into his role on the international stage.
All things considered, this was another frustrating Bok performance. Even though it was a comfortable win, it wasn't a commanding win. This Welsh team should've been put away by a far larger margin.
But I have faith in Dr Rassie. He knows more than I do. Bring on 2027 😁
Go to commentsGo the AB's .. Probs win by about 30 I reckon ... Cheers ..
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