England's Marler cited for striking in Wales Six Nations clash

Joe Marler could miss England's bid for Grand Slam glory against France in Paris on Saturday after being cited for striking Wales prop Rob Evans during the weekend's Six Nations win at Twickenham.

A separate incident of verbal abuse, in which Marler called Wales's Samson Lee "gypsy boy" during the course of England's 25-21 win at Twickenham Saturday, remains under investigation.

Verbal abuse of a player based on religion, race, colour, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation or otherwise carries a minimum sanction of a four-week suspension.

"Joe Marler has been cited by the independent citing commissioner for allegedly striking an opponent in the 15th minute of the first half of the RBS 6 Nations match between England and Wales at Twickenham," said a Six Nations statement issued Monday.

England's governing Rugby Football Union said Sunday that Marler apologised to Lee at half-time and was "reminded by (head coach) Eddie Jones of his responsibilities as an England player after the game".

During the first half of the match, Harlequins prop Marler appeared to land a forearm in the face of Evans while trying to assist Dan Cole ground the ball over Wales's try-line.

If found guilty at a disciplinary hearing later this week, Marler will face an "entry-point" ban of two weeks, which would rule him out of England's attempt to seal a first Grand Slam since 2003.

Victory over Wales gave England -- who've now won all four of their matches under Australian boss Jones -- the Six Nations title with a round to spare.
Source: AFP