Match officials have been accused of a “dereliction of duty” in Saracens’ thumping win over Harlequins after apparent foul play was ignored when it was highlighted by a television pundit.
Former England scrum-half Austin Healey spotted a clear-out by Quins’ Stephan Lewies while working for TNT Sports.
But the TMO was heard telling the referee he did not want to talk about it due to it being spotted by Healey.
Lewies had already received a yellow card during the first half of the game.
The alleged clear-out saw the Harlequins captain slide on his knees into Saracens captain Owen Farrell.
Television match official Stuart Terheege told referee Christophe Ridley on a microphone during the broadcast: “The problem I have now is that it looks like Austin has instigated it because we’re late, so I don’t want to talk about it, okay?”
Professor John Fairclough, of player welfare group Progressive Rugby, said it was hugely concerning.
“Whatever the reason, it is clear a decision has been taken to ignore foul, reckless or dangerous play because of concern that it had been highlighted by a pundit,” he added.
“This is hugely concerning and a clear dereliction of a match official’s duty to ensure player safety.
“An explanation should be sought as a matter of urgency.”
A spokesperson for the Rugby Football Union said: “The RFU conducts regular reviews following all games that take place, as will be the case for Saracens v Harlequins.”
