Italy hooker facing charge for gouging Healy

Leonardo Ghiraldini will face a disciplinary hearing today in relation to an incident that occurred during Ireland's 36-6 victory last Sunday when the Italian hooker allegedly eye-gouged Cian Healy in the first-half of the game.

The charge comes against Ghiraldini following a citing by Peter Larter for a breach of Law 10.4(m) contact with the eyes or the eye area and acts contrary to good sportsmanship.

The case will be heard by the Independent Judicial Officer Bruce Squire QC.

The hearing will take place in Auckland at 4am (Irish time).