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Six Nations chiefs have confirmed they will look into accusations that Wales prop Samson Lee was racially abused
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Video footage has emerged of Lee being called a ‘gypsy boy’
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Joe Marler apologised to Lee at half-time and was later “reminded of his responsibilities as an England player” by head coach Eddie Jones
RBS Six Nations chiefs have confirmed they will look into accusations that Wales prop Samson Lee was racially abused during the Wales’ defeat against England.
Video footage has emerged of Lee being called a ‘gypsy boy’ during the first-half of the 25-21 defeat of Wales by England.
Audio picked up by referee Craig Joubert’s microphone during a first-half melee clearly picks up the offensive words being shouted close to the Scarlets forward.
Shortly afterwards, prop Joe Marler is seen striding towards Lee – who has spoken openly about his heritage in the past – before the pair square up.
The Rugby Football Union said prop Marler, 25, apologised to Lee at half-time and was later “reminded of his responsibilities as an England player” by head coach Eddie Jones.
The Welsh Rugby Union said in a statement: “We’re disappointed by the comment made, and pleased Joe Marler apologised to Samson and was reminded of his responsibilities as an international rugby player.”
Marler elbow on Evans. #ENGvWAL https://t.co/Nw7kxoYCGX
— rugby (@theblitzdefence) March 12, 2016
Marler could already find himself in hot water after footage emerged of him punching Rob Evans during the first half of this evening’s game between England and Wales.
The incident occurred just as Dan Cole was judged to have been held up as he crossed the line during the first half, and could have had a massive bearing on the game.
Indeed, Marler’s actions could viewed as being stupid in the extreme, as England were firmly in control of the game at the time, and looked as if they were going to record an easy victory.