Brian O'Driscoll has been cited for an alleged stamp on Italian flanker Simone Favaro during last Saturday’s Six Nations defeat at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
The Leinster centre was sent to the sin-bin after 30 minutes by English referee Wayne Barnes, one of three yellow cards received by Irish players during the 22-15 defeat. It was only the second time in his 14-year professional career that O’Driscoll has been sent to the sin bin.
The 34-year-old lifted his right leg and brought it down on to the chest of Favaro, the Italy openside, who yelled out in pain and writhed around on the turf.
The act was out of character for O’Driscoll and was evidence of his frustration at a first Six Nations defeat to Italy on his 125th Test appearance.
The recommended suspension for a low end stamping offence is two weeks, the mid range five weeks and top end nine weeks, up to a maximum of one year.
While the offence was serious, O’Driscoll’s lack of previous disciplinary issues will count in his favour.
No date or venue has been announced for the hearing.
