Johnny Sexton's disciplinary hearing to take place on Thursday

Johnny Sexton is set to face a disciplinary hearing this Thursday, and the outcome could have implications for Ireland's preparations for the World Cup.

The Ireland captain has been accused of misconduct after his behavior towards match officials following Leinster's loss to La Rochelle in the Champions Cup final on May 20th.

Although Sexton did not participate in the game due to a groin injury, he entered the field after the match and engaged in what appeared to be a heated exchange with referee Jaco Peyper and other officials.

European Professional Club Rugby, the tournament organizer, lodged misconduct complaints against Sexton and Leinster after conducting a thorough review of the incident. They also raised concerns about Leinster's failure to control their captain.

Sexton, who recently turned 38, will attend the disciplinary hearing via video conference, with Christopher Quinlan KC presiding as the independent disciplinary panel chair.

Ireland's first World Cup warm-up match is scheduled against Italy on August 5th, followed by games against England and Samoa later that month.

Their opening World Cup fixture is against Romania in Bordeaux on September 9th, so if Sexton receives a suspension, it could potentially impact his availability for the tournament.