France flanker Axelle Berthoumieu will miss the World Cup semi-final against England after being banned for 12 matches for biting Ireland’s Aoife Wafer in Sunday’s quarter-final.
Berthoumieu faced a disciplinary hearing on Monday after being cited for the incident in the second half of France’s 18-13 comeback victory against Ireland.
France had stormed back from 13-0 down at half-time to book their place in the last four but the result was quickly overshadowed by controversy when footage emerged appearing to show Berthoumieu biting Wafer’s arm during a breakdown.
Wafer was seen speaking to referee Aimee Barrett-Theron, gesturing toward her arm and indicating she had been bitten.
Ireland captain Sam Monaghan later confirmed she had raised the issue with officials, though no action was taken during the match.
“I spoke to the referee,” Monaghan said. “Aoife told me. I didn’t see it myself but I spoke to the referee and asked them.”
The semi-final between England and France takes place on Saturday in Bristol at 3.30pm, with New Zealand playing Canada in the first semi-final on Friday evening.
More to follow…