England chiefs facing misconduct complaints

World Cup chiefs today convened a hearing into two misconduct complaints involving England.

England briefly fielded 16 players during their clash against Samoa last weekend, and that matter has now been referred to Rugby World Cup independent judicial officer, Brian McLaughlin.

A statement issued by Rugby World Cup from Sydney today read: “The misconduct complaint is directed against the Rugby Football Union in respect of action contrary to instructions issued by the number five match official Brett Bowden.

“A further misconduct complaint is directed against the England team official David Reddin.”

The hearing for both complaints is scheduled for 7am Irish time tomorrow in Sydney.

It is understood that England head coach Clive Woodward may fly from Brisbane to Sydney to the hearing although confirmation of that has yet to be received.