England await outcome of Ferris biting accusation

The England squad will find out this evening whether one of their players will be cited for allegedly biting Stephen Ferris during their Six Nations encounter in Twickenham on Saturday.

In the 28th minute of the game Ferris drew referee Nigel Owens’ attention to a mark on his finger which he claimed was the result of biting on the part of an English player.

The Welsh referee called both captains aside and insisted he would not tolerate such foul play but admitted he hadn’t seen any biting and so could not issue a sanction himself.

"I have an accusation of biting, a clear mark on the finger," he said to the two captains while Ferris was receiving attention to the injury.

"I did not see something. If I do it will be dealt with severely, which would be a red card. It could be dealt with afterwards. If it is seen it will be dealt with. I did not see it.

"Have a word. Nothing like that takes place in this game. I can only deal with what I see. Have a word please."

Owens then relayed his message to Ferris clarifying that he was not in a position to send an English player off for an offence he did not see.

"I have had a look. Unless I can see it, it's been dealt with, okay? I have done all I can. It has been noted. If I don't see it I can't do anything about it. It has been spoken about and dealt with."

English captain Chris Robshaw was eager to point out that the game was for the most played in a good spirit.

The flanker was unwilling to comment on what would happen if the allegation was proven pointing out that at the moment no English player has a case to answer.

"It is one of those things we will have to address when we meet up, but at the moment it is innocent until proven guilty, so to speak...We will see what happens."

The independent citing commissioner Alberto Recalbini has until 6.30pm today to examine the match and decide whether it is necessary to cite any players or not.

If there is proof of biting, under IRB regulations the offending player will receive a suspension which could range between a minimum of 12 weeks and a maximum of four years.