Springbok tactics concern Mitchell

Former All Blacks coach John Mitchell fears the Springboks will cause an opponent serious injury if rugby officials continue turning a blind eye to alleged rough house tactics.

Mitchell, now in Perth preparing the Western Force for the inaugural Super 14 in 2006, was concerned about several incidents during the Wallabies' 30-12 victory over South Africa in Sydney on July 9.

Three incidents in particular -- including an eye gouge allegation from Wallabies lock Nathan Sharpe -- went without investigation, prompting Australian coach Eddie Jones to call for an overhaul of the citing system.

Midfield back De Wet Barry was also seen stomping on Mat Rogers at a ruck although New Zealand referee Kelvin Deaker saw the incident and waved play on.

"I can't see how they keep getting away with it," Mitchell told The Sun Herald newspaper.

"You'd expect the citing commissioner to pick up those types of incidents through the vision. When it keeps coming from the same side, there needs to be a much more thorough assessment of the process.

"You're seeing some players being sinbinned or suspended for poor technique in some aspects of play. But then there are those players who are getting away with more serious acts of violence.

"Something needs to be done before someone gets seriously hurt."

Mitchell, from his days as All Blacks coach, witnessed some unsavoury tactics from the Springboks.

In 2002, South African captain Corne Krige was cited for allegedly biting All Blacks No 8 Scott Robertson on the leg, but the charge was thrown out.

"I still believe things should be left on the field, but sometimes the Springboks overstep the mark," Mitchell said.

An International Rugby Board (IRB) spokesman said the citing system would be discussed when the executive committee met next month.

- nzpa