Officials to investigate tunnel altercation

London – England’s World Cup campaign hit a new low as rugby chiefs investigated an alleged illegal approach to match-day officials during their defeat by Australia.

Talk of rifts in the England camp and speculation over who could replace coach Stuart Lancaster (right) added to the sense of crisis after they were dumped out of the tournament in the first round.

Japan’s Australian coach Eddie Jones said he could be “open” to an approach as England slumped to an all-time low of eighth in the world rankings.

According to media reports, two members of England’s coaching staff approached match officials as England and Australia players went off the field at halftime in their 33-13 loss.

“World Rugby is investigating an alleged breach by the England coaching team of the match-day communications protocol between match officials and team members or union officials,” said a World Rugby statement released on Monday.

The protocol prohibits “coaches approaching match officials during a match or at half-time.”

There was a “robust” discussion in the tunnel after referee Romain Poite penalised the English scrum three times in the first half, The Times reported.

“They have been in contact with us wanting to speak to us, but I don’t know what the process will be,” said England’s assistant coach Andy Farrell.

Australian coach Michael Cheika received a formal warning this year after he approached referee Jaco Peyper at half-time during his New South Wales Waratahs’ win over the Blues in Sydney.

Farrell, whose son Owen was one of the few good performers for England, had to fight off questions about his role in England’s downfall at a press conference.

Media reports have spoken of players feeling that Farrell had too much influence in Lancaster’s team selection and were uneasy about Rugby League convert Sam Burgess getting a place so soon.

“Four of us as coaches get together and have a selection meeting. You put your two pennies worth in and Stuart makes the call and we all buy into that. It’s unanimous,” Farrell said.

Farrell said Burgess had “worked unbelievably hard and continued to work very hard and give his all for the team.” –