The Bulls are attempting to have David Kriel’s red card overturned ahead of their United Rugby Championship game against Scarlets in Llanelli.

The Potchefstroom-born player received a rather harsh red card for leading into a tackle with his elbow and striking an Ospreys player in the neck-head region.

To further add to the Bulls woes, the Springbok duo of Elrigh Louw and Gerhard Steenekamp will both be out of contention after picking up concussions in the 29-19 win in Swansea.

The Bulls coach, Jake White, has confirmed that they will appeal the red card while Devon Williams will join them on tour.

“Firstly, we’re going to have a look at it and see what channels we can go through to see what the outcome is,” said White. “We’re no different from other teams who have injuries or losing international players. Over a period of 21 games in this competition, you’re going to have to have contingency plans.”

Gerhard Steenekamp. Photo: Morgan Piek

“David carried the ball into contact to a ten who is 5 foot 2, and David is 6 foot 4. That thing happens. I actually asked the referee (Eoghan Cross) if David hadn't put his arm out and the ten had hit his head, would the ten have gotten a red card?

“The ironic thing is the 10 didn’t go off.

"So, you know, I’ve seen red cards and I can’t argue with it. But I mean, the 10 stayed on the field because, to quote the referee, because he got hit in the throat.”

Elrigh Louw. Photo: Morgan Piek

White does face somewhat of a selection headache leading into the game against Scarlets because of the HIA protocols that need to be followed and he confirmed that Louw as well as Steenekamp will be out of contention.

“Failing an HIA doesn’t mean you’re out for six weeks, it might be 12 days. If it’s 12 days, they’ll be available for Springbok duty. What I do know is it’s a given that neither of them will be able to play next week.”

The Bulls face the Scarlets on Friday night at 20:35 in Llanelli.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg