Ryno Benjamin was withdrawn from the Springbok Sevens team because of disciplinary reasons, the South African team management announced on Thursday.

Paul Treu, the Springbok coach, confirmed the inclusion of Shaun Venter in place of Benjamin – who is one of the senior contracted players in the SA squad.

The Boks will defend their title at the George leg of the International Rugby Board Sevens World Series on Friday and Saturday.

“Ryno breached our team protocol and I had to make a difficult call,” Treu said.

“We are a closely knitted family and our team culture is very important to us.

“It was not an easy call to make, especially so close to the tournament, but rules are rules and the healthy state of the team is more important than any individual.

“I am very satisfied with the team’s preparations and the players are looking forward to playing in front of their home supporters,” the Bok coach added.

South Africa – revised: Mpho Mbiyozo, Chase Minnaar, Frankie Horne, Cecil Afrika, Marius Schoeman, Kyle Brown, JW Jonker, Shaun Venter, Paul Delport (captain), Mzwandile Stick, Deon Helberg, MJ Mentz.