New York law firm ready to defend Rassie

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: It seems like World Rugby could find themselves in an ugly legal battle following the citing of SA Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus.

World Rugby announced on Monday that Rassie Erasmus and SA Rugby will face an independent misconduct hearing.

This follows comments Erasmus made regarding the match officials performances during the First Test between South Africa and the British and Irish Lions.

After Springboks’ 17-22 defeat in the first Test, Erasmus made a 62-minute video in which he strongly criticised the refereeing in the first Test.

In the video Erasmus – who also acts as the Bok team’s water boy – highlights a litany of errors by Australian referee Nick Berry and his fellow match officials.

The video has left many hot under the collar, with Rugby Australia labelling it as ‘unacceptable’.

World Rugby has since stepped in and charged Erasmus and SA Rugby with misconduct.

However, Marco Masotti, a partner in a leading US law firm, believes Erasmus should put up a fight.

The South African-born Massotti, who heads up MVM Holding which owns a 51 percent stake in the Sharks franchise, revealed he will assist with legal help for Erasmus and SA Rugby.

“I have a team of New York lawyers ready to take care of Rassie and SA Rugby. Let us put World Rugby on trial,” tweeted the 52-year-old.

While Erasmus has revealed he would step down for the rest of the Lions Series, the Director and organisation he serves will have major concerns.

Should Erasmus be found guilty, he could lose his positions at World Rugby’s High Performance XVs committee.

While SA Rugby could lose their right to apply for future major tournaments, which includes the World Cup.