Slap on wrist for Cheika’s outburst

RUGBY UNION: Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has been told officially to “moderate his conduct and language” in camera-range at Test matches but has avoided any disciplinary action over his outburst from the Twickenham grandstand last weekend.

Cheika apologised to disciplinary officer Jon Davis who conducted an investigation into comments and conduct arising from the Australia-England Test for any offence caused.

Amateur lip-readers picked up Cheika making a frustrated shout of “f***ing cheats” from the open coaches’ box at Twickenham when an early Michael Hooper “try” was disallowed for off-side last Sunday.

It took five days since the Test but the air was cleared on Thursday by an investigation triggered by a referral from World Rugby and media reports.

“Mr Cheika and the Australian Rugby Union co-operated with the investigation,” read a statement from the Autumn Internationals Disciplinary office.

“In light of Mr Cheika’s explanations of his conduct, his clear understanding of the need to protect and promote the interests of the sport, and his open apology for any offence caused, the Disciplinary Officer for the Autumn Internationals (in consultation with World Rugby) has decided not to pursue any disciplinary proceedings against Mr Cheika.

“The Disciplinary Officer has, however, urged Mr Cheika to be aware of the risks during matches when he knows he will be being filmed and potentially broadcast, and where possible to moderate his conduct and language accordingly. Mr Cheika has accepted the position.”

Cheika was unavailable for comment.