Hartley cited
England hooker Dylan Hartley has been cited for allegedly biting Stephen Ferris' finger during Saturday's Six Nations clash with Ireland.
The alleged incident is said to have occurred in the 23rd minute of the game and while referee Nigel Owens did not see it, match commissioner Alberto Recaldini has found cause to initiate a disciplinary hearing.
"England hooker Dylan Hartley has been cited following the RBS 6 Nations match between England and Irelandat Twickenham on Saturday for an alleged biting offence," the Six Nations organisers said in a statement.
"The independent Six Nations citing commissioner for the match, Alberto Recaldini (Italy), cited theEnglandplayer under IRB Law 10.4(m), "Acts contrary to good sportsmanship", for allegedly biting the finger of an opponent in the 23rd minute of the first-half.
"The player's hearing will be held by an independent Six Nations disciplinary committee at a date to be confirmed."
The Rugby Football Union confirmed that they had been notified of the hearing but would not make further comment.
Should Hartley be found guilty of biting, he could face a suspension of up to four years.
According to the International Rugby Board's disciplinary sanctions table, a low end entry point twelve-week suspension, with eighteen weeks for mid-range and twenty-four-plus weeks the starting point for a top end offense.
