Is the rugby world overreacting to the Adrie Savea gesture? Absolutely.

While it’s certainly not appropriate to threaten to slit someone’s throat in any context, the rugby field is a unique environment where physical domination is the name of the game. In this context, even an apology is unnecessary.

For those who have never played rugby, it’s important to understand that keeping a cool head is essential from the first, to the final blow of the whistle. The opposition will do everything possible to get under your skin, and success in this area can lead to costly mistakes. Be it a handling error or a penalty born out of frustration.

Intimidation is a also crucial factor in the sport, which is why the All Blacks perform the Haka before every test. The Haka sometimes includes – and get this – a throat-slitting gesture.

What Ardie Savea did this morning was APPALLING, wasn't it?

Oh wait. pic.twitter.com/klobfQfuus

— Charles Richardson (@CERichardson_) March 3, 2023

While Savea’s gesture could be seen as inappropriate, it’s important to remember that rugby is a physical and emotional game.

The Savea incident

At the stroke of halftime, the Hurricanes found themselves defending a maul with their backs against the try line. Suddenly, a scuffle broke out as a couple of players broke away from the maul situation.

Despite the referee’s clear orders to refrain from charging in, some players, including Savea, did not comply. Although Savea may have had the best of intentions to break up the fight, his actions were deemed to have escalated the situation, resulting in a yellow card.

Following this, Ardie Savea received some lip from the Rebels scrum-half, Ryan Louwrens. Although the exact words were inaudible, it prompted an aggressive response from Savea, who made a throat-slitting gesture to the South African-born player.

Ugly scenes here.

Not a good look from Ardie Savea.

Have to wonder what was said. pic.twitter.com/EG8o64JwWM

— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) March 3, 2023

Ardie apologizes, but Savea still faces sanctions

After the game, Adrie Savea apologized for his actions, calling it “out of character”. He added that rugby is a “warrior’s game,” and sometimes, players lose control in the heat of the moment.

However, despite his apology, the All-Black loose forward now faces a four-week ban, but he intends to fight the charge.

Watch Savea apologize:

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