Saints in the Dock over North Release

Northampton face a Premiership Rugby disciplinary panel in London today (Wednesday) for allowing wing George North to play for Wales against Australia outside the International Rugby Board’s autumn window.

The match, which Wales lost 30-26, took place outside of the International Rugby Board's autumn window.

Premiership clubs have agreed that only players representing England can be released for matches outside of that international window.

A decision is expected to be announced on Thursday.

North is thought to have clauses written into his contract stating Northampton must release him for all Wales' internationals, even outside agreed IRB windows.

But that goes against Premiership Rugby regulations, hence this disciplinary hearing.

Saints are the first team to contravene this Premiership Rugby policy, and can expect a fine if the disciplinary ruling confirms the breach.

North will have no involvement in the hearing and his conduct is not under scrutiny.