Thursday 17 March 2016 07:02, UK
England's Joe Marler will receive no sanction for verbal abuse after an incident with Wales' Samson Lee in Saturday's match at Twickenham.
Marler, who earlier on Wednesday escaped a suspension for striking Rob Evans during the 25-21 win, was caught on referee Craig Joubert's microphone calling Lee a "gypsy boy".
However, Six Nations rugby have accepted Marler's explanation and the Harlequins prop will now be available to play in England's Grand Slam decider against France in Paris on Sunday.
"Six Nations Rugby are aware of the seriousness of Mr. Marler's comment and do not in anyway condone what was said," the tournament organisers said in a statement.
"Six Nations Rugby have considered the reports in detail and noted the fact that Mr. Marler deeply regretted what he had said and had immediately and unprompted apologised to Mr. Lee at half-time. They also noted that head coach of England Eddie Jones had reprimanded Mr. Marler and reminded him of his responsibilities as an International Rugby Player.
"Six Nations Rugby have accepted the explanation provided that the comment was one made in the heat of the moment.
"Having taken all the facts into account no further disciplinary action will be taken. Six Nations Rugby consider that this matter is now closed.
Marler added in a statement: "I have accepted from the outset that I made the misguided remark to Samson. It was made in the heat of the moment. I apologised, unprompted, to Samson Lee at half-time and this was accepted.
"As ever we shook hands and exchanged smiles at the end of the game. I have been warned very clearly by Eddie Jones how comments like this are unacceptable. I will certainly conduct myself differently in future.
"I do not condone racism in any form, at any time, deeply regret the incident and intend to reflect the behaviours expected of an England player going forward.
"Once again I apologise for the upset my inappropriate remark has caused".
