Saints to investigate ‘biting’ claims during Tigers defeat

Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder confirmed the club will investigate claims by Tigers hooker Tom Youngs that he was bitten during the 22-16 Aviva Premiership win at Franklin’s Garden’s
NOT HAPPY - Tigers coach Richard Cockerill claims his hooker Tom Youngs was bitten in the win at SaintsNOT HAPPY - Tigers coach Richard Cockerill claims his hooker Tom Youngs was bitten in the win at Saints
NOT HAPPY - Tigers coach Richard Cockerill claims his hooker Tom Youngs was bitten in the win at Saints

Referee Wayne Barnes took no action over the 15th-minute incident, although he did refer it to television match official Trevor Fisher after hearing an unnamed player’s allegation on the pitch.

Mallinder confirmed he would speak to Saints skipper and England hooker Dylan Hartley about the incident, although it is unclear whether Mallinder meant because of his role as club captain or whether he was under any suspicion.

Match citing commissioner, former England lock Wade Dooley, is now likely to investigate the episode.

“Tom said that he was bitten on the hand by someone he didn’t elaborate on.” Cockerill said.

“The referee referred it to the TMO, and looked at it and there was clearly nothing to look at. Maybe Tom was mistaken. It will be looked at by the relevant people.”

Mallinder added: “I don’t think there was anything in it. I would be very surprised.

“I haven’t looked into it, I have just come off the field. I will be speaking to Dylan about the incident. I would be very surprised. I have not spoken to Dylan about it, but I will do.”

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