Joe Marler: World Rugby ask Six Nations to explain decision not to punish England prop over 'gypsy boy' comment
Marler admitted to calling Wales prop Samson Lee 'gypsy boy' but he has been cleared of any disciplinary action
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.World Rugby have requested more information from the organisers of the Six Nations about the process that led to England prop Joe Marler being cleared of verbally abusing another player during last week's victory over Wales.
Marler called Wales prop Samson Lee "gypsy boy" during the match at Twickenham last Saturday and on Wednesday Six Nations Rugby said no further action would be taken against him.
The governing body of the global game released a statement late on Thursday, however, in which it said it "noted" the outcome of the investigation.
"World Rugby can confirm that, in accordance with its regulations, it has requested further information from Six Nations Rugby in respect of the process that led to its decision," it continued.
Six Nations Rugby, in its ruling, accepted Marler had made the comment "in the heat of the moment", while the player said he "deeply" regretted the incident and had apologised to Lee at halftime of the match.
The 25-year-old forward has been warned by England coach Eddie Jones about his conduct and earlier on Thursday was dropped from the starting line-up for this weekend's match against France.
Australian Jones said the decision to bench Marler for the Paris clash, in which England will be looking to secure a first grand slam since 2003, was not related to the incident.
Jones and his Wales counterpart Warren Gatland have been criticised for using the word "banter" to describe Marler's comments. Gatland has apologised.
Reuters
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments