Yoann Maestri warned over Sexton cheap shot

French second row will not face disciplinary hearing after shoulder-charge on Irish outhalf

Ireland’s Jonathan Sexton is attended to by Dr Eanna Falvey after the Maestri incident. Photo: Billy Stickland/Inpho
Ireland’s Jonathan Sexton is attended to by Dr Eanna Falvey after the Maestri incident. Photo: Billy Stickland/Inpho

Yoann Maestri has been warned over his shoulder-charge on Johnny Sexton during France's 10-9 win over Ireland at the Stade de France last Saturday.

The incident, which left the Irish outhalf requiring treatment, was picked up by match referee Jaco Peyper at the time but the official only awarded a penalty which Sexton duly converted.

Having reviewed the television footage, the independent citing commissioner concluded that “Maestri had infringed the World Rugby’s laws of the game and that his actions fell ‘just short of’ warranting a red card”.