France prop Uini Atonio cited for high tackle

France prop Uini Atonio will face an independent disciplinary hearing on Wednesday following his yellow card incident during the recently concluded Six Nations game against Ireland in Dublin.

The 32-year-old was sin-binned in the 25th minute of the encounter for a high tackle on Ireland hooker Rob Herring, who had to leave the field due to a head injury.

He was cited by the citing commissioner for an act of foul play contrary to law 9.13 that deals with "A player must not tackle an opponent early, late or dangerously.

"Dangerous tackling includes, but is not limited to, tackling or attempting to tackle an opponent above the line of the shoulders even if the tackle starts below the line of the shoulders."

Any suspension would see him miss at least the upcoming round clash against Scotland scheduled at Stade de France on 26th February.

France are positioned fourth in the Six Nations table with a solitary win from two matches.