By Salma El-Sakka
Leinster and Ireland prop Tadhg Furlong has been cleared by an independent disciplinary committee after an allegation he grabbed the groin of Munster's Gavin Coombes during a United Rugby Championship match.
Incident at Aviva Stadium
The incident occurred during Munster's 24-18 defeat at the Aviva Stadium. Coombes alleged he was grabbed at a ruck, but television match official Colin Stanley could not find conclusive video evidence after a referral from referee Andrew Brace. Furlong was subsequently cited under Law 9.27, which prohibits acts against the spirit of good sportsmanship including grabbing, twisting or squeezing the genitals.
Disciplinary Committee Decision
At a hearing on Thursday, the 33-year-old was cleared of sanction. The committee unanimously dismissed the citing complaint, stating Furlong did not commit an act of foul play contrary to Law 9.27. The committee also found Coombes gave an honest account and the complaint was properly brought.
Furlong Free for November Games
The dismissal leaves Furlong free to feature in Ireland's Nations Championship games in November.
