Ardie Savea apologizes for controversial throat-slitting gesture

All Blacks forward Ardie Savea has apologized for making a throat-slitting gesture towards an opponent during a Super Rugby Pacific match in Melbourne, conceding he needs “to be better.”

Wellington Hurricanes captain Savea ran his thumb across his throat during a verbal exchange with Melbourne Rebels halfback Ryan Louwrens after being shown a yellow card in Friday’s match, won 39-33 by the Hurricanes.

The 29-year-old Savea, regarded as one of the world’s premier players, was shown the card for “escalating” the situation; according to referee James Doleman, players from both teams had become involved in an altercation late in the first half.

Rebels captain Reece Hodge immediately complained to Doleman that stiffer punishment was needed as Savea’s gesture towards Louwrens was “threatening to kill him.”

Savea, who has played 70 Tests for the All Blacks, including four as captain, later told broadcaster Stan Sport he lost control of his temper and regretted the action.

“I can understand the fans are furious around the gesture that I made,” he said.

“Kids are watching us; we’re in the heat of the moment. Usually, that’s out of character for me, so I put my hand up first, and I apologize for that.”

Savea said the fiery encounter with Louwrens was “just normal banter in the game” and accepted it wasn’t a good look from a player regarded as a role model.

“We’re trying to clean up the game. But, I understand, there’s no excuse for me; I’ve got to be better.”

Savea’s action overshadowed his dominant on-field performance at No.8, scoring the first two Hurricanes’ tries and setting up the third. (AFP)