The pitch invader of Wales’ game against South Africa has received a lifetime ban from the Principality Stadium, the WRU has announced.

The man, who has widely been lambasted on social media for his actions and who Caerphilly Observer is not naming because of reported death threats towards him, could also face further sanctions because he is a registered player with Senghenydd RFC.

Mark Williams Principality Stadium Manager said: “The WRU, Principality Stadium and South Wales Police condemns any behaviour of this kind, and the individual will be issued with a lifetime ban from buying any tickets from the WRU for rugby events held at Principality Stadium in future.

“We were deeply disappointed to discover the individual is a registered player and member of a rugby club; the WRU are currently investigating this as a Code of Conduct breach.

“I’d like to thank the pitch side stewards and on pitch security team who acted swiftly stopping the individual and escorting them from the field of play. For more than 20 years this stadium has been revered across the world for its unique atmosphere and game day experience. It’s extremely disappointing to think that by recent events the traditional game day experience is under threat and that we might be forced to look at additional measures that will impact on the fan experience in future.”

South Wales Police said the man was not arrested.

Did it for a £20 bet

In the 63rd minute of the game, held on Saturday, November 6, with the score at 15-15, the invader ran onto the pitch and disrupted a Wales attack – potentially denying a try-scoring opportunity. Wales eventually lost 23-18.

He was escorted off the pitch while angry fans threw drinks at him.

It has been said that he ran onto the pitch after a £20 bet with friends.

Speaking to WalesOnline, a family member said the man had received death threats, while relatives had also been targeted by online trolls.

Caerphilly’s Senedd Member, Hefin David, tweeted: “He did a very stupid thing… Be annoyed or be amused, but please, leave him and his family alone.”

Death threats are not okay and the club should not be sanctioned

Opinion: Death threats are never ok. The invader may or may not have cost Wales a try (probably not), and of course everyone has an eye on world rankings and the implications that has on a Rugby World Cup draw, but some perspective is needed.

Caerphilly Observer has seen some of the messages sent to relatives and there can be no excuse for them.

While invading the pitch during a game is not the smartest move, neither is going online and sending vicious abuse to the pitch invader and particularly his family who have done nothing wrong.

Likewise, there have been calls on Twitter for Senghenydd RFC to be punished, but what good would that do?

No doubt the club will be investigating with the WRU and it will be up to them to decide on the next course of action.