Tadhg Furlong cited after Munster player alleges groin grab

Leinster prop Tadhg Furlong has been cited for an alleged act of foul play during his team's United Rugby Championship match against Munster on Saturday at the Aviva Stadium. The Irish Examiner, the Irish Times, the BBC, the Irish Independent, BreakingNews.ie, and The 42 all reported the citing on Monday. Match citing commissioner Peter Ferguson made a formal complaint against the player, according to the Irish Times. [1][2][3][4][5][6]

The citing comes after Munster number eight Gavin Coombes complained that he was grabbed in his groin area during the game, the Irish Times reported. The alleged incident occurred in the 37th minute of the first half, according to the Irish Times, though FTMQ News reported earlier that Coombes alleged the incident took place in the 39th minute. Furlong has been cited under Law 9.27, which states that a player must not do anything against the spirit of good sportsmanship, including grabbing, twisting, or squeezing the genitals, the Irish Examiner and the Irish Times both reported. [1][2][10][11]

As FTMQ News reported earlier, match officials found no video evidence during the game to support the claim at the time. Match citing commissioner Peter Ferguson reviewed the matter following the referee report. Arrangements for the disciplinary procedure will be announced in due course, the Irish Examiner reported. [1][10]

Furlong plays as a tighthead prop for Leinster, the Ireland national team, and the British and Irish Lions. He made his senior debut for Leinster in 2013, signed a full contract in 2014, and made his Ireland debut in 2015. He has started all three test matches on three Lions tours. [7][9]