The Sunday Paper Review on Off The Ball believe Gerbrandt Grobler’s return may spell problems for the province after his past ban from the sport.
Grobler made his return to action last Friday after recovering from an ankle injury that had him ruled out for two months. The Irish province have come under fire since the player's return from injury.
The South African made his first start for the province since sustaining an injury in a pre-season game against Worcester, last July. The former Western Province player served a two-year ban after testing positive for the anabolic steroid drostanolone, while playing for the South African side.
The Sunday Paper Review panel agree that having Grobler in the side is a bad look for Munster and their brand.
Joe Molloy says it’s a bad look for Munster on and off the park.
“Even if Munster are going to be as hard-nosed and business minded about this, as possible. Then it’s bad for the brand. Even if, ethically behind the scenes they are thinking: ‘ Ahh, come on. He’s served his ban. Get over it,’
There has been a huge backlash from the rugby community and media in Ireland, before and after, Grobler’s debut for the province in the ‘A’ side’s ‘B and I Cup’ victory over Nottingham on Friday.
Muster coach Johann Van Grann was quick to defend the player ahead of his provincial debut, despite not originally signing the former Western Province lock-forward. Rassie Erasmus originally signed the player but the current Munster coach went on on record at last week’s press conference to defend Grobler.
“He’s fought through them really well, I thought, and he’s a quality individual so we wish him well in his journey back,' Van Grann added.
OTB’s Joe Molloy believes Munster Rugby may have to re-access the situation after last week’s backlash.
“The reaction this week might force them to re-think the whole situation.”
You can listen to the full interview below:
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