The International Rugby Board (IRB) has confirmed it will bring charges against the South Africa Rugby Union (Saru) for alleged misconduct in breach of the IRB Regulations Relating to the Game including breaches of the IRB Code of Conduct.

The action arises from the Springboks' wearing armbands during the third Test with the British & Irish Lions on Saturday as a symbol of solidarity for Bakkies Botha following the upholding of his two-week suspension by an independent Appeal Committee for dangerously charging into a ruck without binding on a player.

The IRB takes the view that such an act demonstrates a clear disregard of the disciplinary process and does so in a manner which brings, or has the potential to bring, the Game into disrepute.

The IRB has notified Saru that it intends to begin the disciplinary proceedings. The matter will now be referred to the independent Judicial Panel Chairman who will appoint a Judicial Officer or Committee.

The armbands the players and other wore were white with Justice 4 inscribed on them.