File picture of Robbie Kempson. Picture: Tertius Pickard

Durban – Robbie Kempson will know his fate on Thursday after being arrested in Bermuda on Tuesday in connection with an off-the-ball incident during a match between the Springbok Legends and the USA at a World Rugby Classic tournament at the weekend.

The former Springbok, Sharks, Stormers and Western Province prop was accused of running into the USA’s Leif Gibson while his back was turned.

Gibson was taken to hospital in a neck brace. It was feared he might not play rugby again.

The former Bok and EP (Eastern Province) Kings coach was arrested after a case was opened by Gibson, according to South African Rugby Legends Association chief executive and Legends player Stefan Terblanche.

The Royal Gazette, a Bermuda news website, said Kempson, 38, was “absolutely shattered” about the serious injury to the American player.

However, Kempson said the incident, which left Gibson with a spinal injury, happened during the course of the game, and “I don’t think it should have gone as far as it has”.

Kempson spent 12 hours in police custody after being arrested over what police described as an “off-ball assault”.

South Africa ended up beating the US 43-10.

Speaking from Bermuda on Wednesday night, Terblanche told The Mercury that Kempson was no longer under arrest, but would have to report to the police station on Thursday.

“We are fully supportive of Rob, he is one of our team members although he will not take part in the semi-final against Argentina.”

Terblanche added that the team would wait for the verdict and take legal advice if necessary.

Kempson was doing fine in the circumstances, he said.

For more details go tohttp://www.iol.co.za/