EPCR name player cited over Henry Pollock Champions Cup final scrap

Union Bordeaux-Bègles prop Jefferson Poirot has been cited following a much-talked about post-match incident involving Northampton Saints’ back-rower Henry Pollock in Saturday’s Investec Champions Cup final in Cardiff.

The complaint alleges Poirot grasped Pollock by the throat in a manner deemed dangerous and contrary to good sportsmanship. The alleged incident occurred shortly after the final whistle of Bordeaux’s 28–20 victory at the Principality Stadium.

The citing was lodged by match commissioner Tim Lowry of Ireland. It falls under Law 9.27, which prohibits actions against the spirit of good sportsmanship. In this case, the act is said to have had the potential to cause serious harm.

The disciplinary hearing will take place via video conference on Thursday 29 May. Simon Thomas (Wales) will chair the panel, joined by Marcello D’Orey (Portugal) and Val Toma (Romania).

Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson said after the final that Pollock had been “particularly upset” by the incident. “I think it was uncalled for and out of order,” he said. “He reacted, and the officials have told me that they will deal with it.”

Saints fly-half Fin Smith echoed that sentiment. “They were after him. I don’t think they liked him,” he said. “I’m surprised if you’ve just won a European Cup, the first thing you want to do is start a fight with a 20-year-old.”

Bordeaux’s win marked the fifth consecutive season a French club has lifted the Champions Cup. Saints, bidding for a first European title since 2000, battled hard despite the early loss of George Furbank and James Ramm to injury.

However, the incident with Pollock and the aftermath has hoovered up headlines, with Bordeaux players pictured mocking the 20-year-old rookie in their post-match celebrations.

Separately, Bath and England flanker Sam Underhill has also been cited after Friday night’s EPCR Challenge Cup final against Lyon.

He is alleged to have tackled Lyon full-back Davit Niniashvili dangerously in the 26th minute, in breach of Law 9.13. The citing was submitted by commissioner Philippe Lenne of Belgium.

He received a yellow for it on the night, although many believed the back-row was lucky not get a straight red for the incident.

That hearing will be held on Tuesday 27 May. The panel will be chaired by Pamela Woodman (Scotland) and includes Stefan Terblanche (South Africa) and Donal Courtney (Ireland).