Sexton’s World Cup hopes lie in the balance ahead of hearing

Much has been made about the actions of a certain Johnny Sexton following Leinster’s Champions Cup loss to La Rochelle last month.

Despite being ruled out of the match through injury, Sexton found himself in the middle of heated disagreements with the officials at the end of the match.

There has been plenty of speculation as to the punishment the Irish fly-half will face, with many Irish fans concerned that his actions will rule him out of this years World Cup.

The EPCR has released a statement detailing the date of Sextons hearing and the names of the individuals tasked as the Independent Disciplinary Committee:

“Misconduct complaints against the Leinster Rugby player, Johnny Sexton, and against Leinster Rugby, arising from the Heineken Champions Cup final on Saturday 20 May 2023, have been lodged by EPCR.

“After thorough fact finding and careful review of Johnny Sexton’s behaviour towards match officials after the match, in accordance with EPCR regulations, the EPCR Disciplinary Officer has submitted misconduct complaints so that an independent disciplinary panel can determine whether any misconduct has been committed by Mr Sexton (through his behaviour) and Leinster (through failing to exercise reasonable control over Mr Sexton).

“The complaints were referred to the Chairman of the Independent Disciplinary Panel, who has appointed Christopher Quinlan KC (England, Chair), Adam Casselden SC (Australia) and Marcello D’Orey (Portugal) as the independent Disciplinary Committee to hear the case and consider whether misconduct took place.

“The hearing will take place by video conference, on 13 July.

“EPCR will be making no further comment.”