Rugby's governing body World Rugby has sought clarification from the Six Nations' tournament organisers over Joe Marler's escaping punishment on two counts following England's win over Wales last weekend.
The Harlequins prop called Wales' Samson Lee "gypsy boy" and was also seen striking Rob Evans during the game. Marler was not reprimanded in either case.
The 25-year-old has been dropped to the bench for England's Grand Slam decider with France after starting three of their previous four matches.
Marler has played 41 times for England. Picture by: David Davies / PA Wire/Press Association Images
In a statement released on Thursday night, World Rugby have stated they want "further information" on why Marler was not reprimanded.
"World Rugby notes the outcome of Six Nations Rugby’s investigation into comments made by England’s Joe Marler towards Wales’ Samson Lee during the RBS 6 Nations match at Twickenham on 12 March, 2016.
World Rugby Law 10.4(m) and Regulations 17 (Discipline) and 20 (Misconduct / Code of Conduct) deal with verbal abuse of players.
World Rugby can confirm that, in accordance with its regulations, it has requested further information from Six Nations Rugby (the tournament organiser of the RBS 6 Nations Championship) in respect of the process that led to its decision."
