Ryno Benjamin was withdrawn from the Springbok Sevens team today because of disciplinary reasons, the South African team management announced on Thursday.

Paul Treu, the Springbok Sevens coach, confirmed the inclusion of Shaun Venter in place of Benjamin, who is one of the senior contracted players in the SA squad.

The Springbok Sevens will defend their Emirates Airline SA Sevens tournament title on Friday and Saturday at Outeniqua Park in George.

“Ryno breached our team protocol and I had to make a difficult call. We are a closely knitted family and our team culture is very important to us,” explained Treu.

“It was not an easy call to make, especially so close to the tournament, but rules are rules and the healthy state of the team is more important than any individual.

“I am very satisfied with the team’s preparations and the players are looking forward to playing in front of their home supporters,” said Treu.

The Springbok Sevens team to play in George is:

1. Mpho Mbiyozo
2. Chase Minnaar
3. Frankie Horne
4. Cecil Afrika
5. Marius Schoeman
6. Kyle Brown
7. JW Jonker
8. Shaun Venter
9. Paul Delport (captain)
10. Mzwandile Stick
11. Deon Helberg
12. MJ Mentz

Management

1. Paul Treu (Coach)
2. Sebastian Prim  (Manager/Analyst)
3. Hugh Everson (Physiotherapist)
4. Alan Temple-Jones (Biokineticist)
5. Dr. Ross Tucker (Sports Management Consultant)