Calls for Cheslin Kolbe ban following controversial punching incident vs All Blacks
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Punched.
Calls have emerged for Cheslin Kolbe to face retrospective punishment following a controversial incident during the Springboks’ victory over the All Blacks in Cape Town.
Kolbe was one of South Africa’s standout performers as Rassie Erasmus’ side secured a crucial 33-26 victory at DHL Stadium to level Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series at 1-1.
However, an off-the-ball altercation involving the Springbok winger and New Zealand’s Leroy Carter has attracted plenty of attention since the final whistle.
The incident occurred after Kolbe had been tackled close to the touchline, with Carter subsequently pulling the Springbok back while he was still on the ground.
Kolbe with the little knacker punch in front of two officials and gets asked if he’s alright after. Fair play. pic.twitter.com/d5LN6G0XWJ
— Jim Demps (@jim_demps) August 29, 2026
Kolbe quickly returned to his feet and appeared to make contact with Carter with his left hand as the pair clashed.
The incident then developed into a brief shoving match before other players became involved.
Kolbe escaped any punishment during the game, but footage of the exchange has since circulated on social media.
Some supporters have called for the Springbok star to be suspended retrospectively, while others have argued that the incident did not warrant further action.
There has been no confirmation at this stage that Kolbe has been cited or charged over the incident.
It came during an otherwise memorable afternoon for the 32-year-old.
Having initially been ruled out of the second Test through injury, Kolbe recovered in time to be restored to the starting XV on Friday.
He was subsequently named Player of the Match after landing all seven of his kicks at goal for a personal haul of 18 points.
His contribution proved crucial as South Africa responded to their 33-16 defeat at Ellis Park by beating the All Blacks in Cape Town.
The result leaves the four-Test series locked at 1-1 ahead of next Saturday’s third Test at FNB Stadium.
Whether the incident involving Kolbe attracts any further attention from the disciplinary process remains to be seen.
