Cheeky Jaden Hendrikse Riles Fans with ‘Cramp’ During Shootout as Sharks Edge Out Munster

Springboks halfback Jaden Hendrikse stirred up frustration among both Munster’s players and fans with what many deemed to be unsportsmanlike behaviour during a thrilling United Rugby Championship quarter-final on Sunday (AEST).

Hendrikse, a 15-Test veteran who represents the Durban-based Sharks, played the part of the controversial hero as the knockout fixture culminated in an unusual place-kicking showdown at Kings Park Stadium.

The match was tied at 24-24 after 20 minutes of extra time, leading to the South Africans progressing to the semi-finals via a “penalty shootout.”

This encounter will particularly be noted for Hendrikse’s behaviour following his successful first kick.

The 25-year-old attempted to throw Munster’s Jack Crowley off his game as he lined up for his kick, but the Irish star remained unfazed and scored successfully.

After successfully converting his own second kick, Hendrikse dramatically fell to the ground, claiming to be suffering from cramp.

There were suspicions raised about his timing, with many feeling he was deliberately trying to waste time and increase pressure on the visitors, especially after he exchanged a wink with Crowley while lying on the pitch.

Despite the distractions, Crowley maintained his focus and successfully converted another kick, but teammate Rory Scannell’s miss proved to be critical as the Sharks moved on and Munster were left in disbelief.

“Jaden Hendrikse is my least favourite rugby player to have ever played,” expressed former Munster player Barry Murphy on Twitter.

“Like and share if you agree. Go shove it.”

Former England international Andy Goode also chimed in, commenting, “Proper shithousery from Jaden Hendrikse there.”