RUGBY – France back row Axelle Berthoumieu has been cited for allegedly biting Ireland’s Aoife Wafer during their Women’s World Cup quarter-final in Exeter yesterday, the sport’s governing body said.
Ireland captain Sam Monaghan raised the issue with the referee in the second half of the match, which France won 18-13 to reach a ninth World Cup semi-final.
“Aoife told me, I didn’t see it myself, but I spoke to the referee and asked them,” Monaghan said.
Berthoumieu’s teammate, Manae Felu, has also been cited for a separate incident.
“France’s Axelle Berthoumieu and Manae Feleu will have cases reviewed by an independent Foul Play Review Committee on Monday ... following two separate citings arising from the France v Ireland at Women’s Rugby World Cup...,” World Rugby said in a statement.
“Berthoumieu has been cited for an action contrary to Law 9.12 (biting), while second row Manae Felu has been cited for an action contrary to Law 9.13 (dangerous tackling).”
According to World Rugby’s disciplinary code, if a player is found guilty of biting the starting point for a suspension is 12 weeks for a low-end offence.
France face England in the semis in Bristol next.
Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Mererangi Paul has been drafted into the squad as an injury replacement for Amy du Plessis ahead of their Women’s Rugby World Cup semi-final against Canada in Bristol, where the defending champions face a potential crisis at centre.
Du Plessis has been ruled out of the rest of the tournament with a shoulder injury picked up in their opening game against Spain, and with Sylvia Brunt and Theresa Setefano doubts to face Canada after head injuries in the quarter-final victory over South Africa, New Zealand may be left short in the midfield.
Stacey Waaka is the only centre known to be available but outside back Paul will be able to cover that position too.
Paul has 12 caps after making her international debut in 2023.
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