British and Irish Lions prop Tadhg Furlong has been cleared of foul play following an allegation that he grabbed an opponent's groin during Leinster's 24-18 victory over Munster at the Aviva Stadium. The independent disciplinary panel unanimously dismissed the citing complaint.
Incident and Review
Munster back-rower Gavin Coombes raised the allegation with referee Andrew Brace during the first half, prompting television match official Colin Stanley to review the incident. The TMO was unable to find conclusive video evidence of any wrongdoing.
Despite that, Furlong was cited under World Rugby Law 9.27, which states that "a player must not do anything that is against the spirit of good sportsmanship including but not limited to grabbing, twisting or squeezing the genitals."
Panel Decision
The 33-year-old, who has toured with the Lions on three occasions, faced a disciplinary hearing on Thursday. The panel concluded that "the citing complaint against the player should be dismissed, on the basis that he did not commit an act of foul play contrary to Law 9.27."
The panel also accepted that Coombes had provided "an honest account of his recollection of events surrounding the incident," despite finding no foul play. Furlong faces no disciplinary sanction and is free to return to action.
Impact on Ireland
The decision is a boost for Ireland ahead of their Nations Championship fixtures, with Furlong available for home matches against Argentina, Fiji and South Africa next month. He will also be eligible for Ireland's finals weekend fixture at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium.
