Live

Highlights on Off The Ball

02:00 PM-06:00 PM

Highlights on Off The Ball
Advertisement
Rugby

Joe Marler given date of misconduct hearing by World Rugby

World Rugby have announced the England and Harlequins prop Joe Marler is to face a misconduct&nbs...



Joe Marler given date of misco...
Rugby

Joe Marler given date of misconduct hearing by World Rugby

World Rugby have announced the England and Harlequins prop Joe Marler is to face a misconduct hearing in London next week.

The April 5th hearing comes off the back of Marler's comments to Wales prop Samson Lee during the Six Nations game between the two sides in Twickenham on March 12th. Marler has since apologised for calling Lee a "gypsy boy".

The England international was not reprimanded for his comments by Six Nations tournament organisers, and World Rugby has stepped in to seek clarity for the reasons why Marler was not punished.

In a statement released by World Rugby, they stated; "World Rugby is of the view that the comments amount to misconduct and/or a breach of the code of conduct under World Rugby Regulation 20 and should have been considered by an independent process.

In the absence of such a process by Six Nations Rugby, World Rugby is exercising its right to take appropriate action before an independent judicial committee."

Marler's hopes of not receiving a ban hit a major blow at the weekend with reports that a professional lip-reader had revealed more of what was said in the on-field incident between the players. According to the Daily Mail, Marler said; "Ey you, gypsy boy! Yeah, get back in your caravan, ey, yes! You! Yes, go on!"

The England prop looks certain to receive a ban, after World Rugby intervened. He will find out his fate next Tuesday.

Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!

Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.


Read more about

Rugby