Dallaglio and Catt escape punishment for criticism of England coach Ashton in World Cup books - Sport - Evening Standard
       

Dallaglio and Catt escape punishment for criticism of England coach Ashton in World Cup books

Lawrence Dallaglio and Mike Catt will not be punished by the Rugby Football Union for criticising Brian Ashton in their controversial World Cup books.

The RFU conducted a review after both England veterans blasted the head coach and the organisation of the team during their campaign in France.

Following serialisations of the books Catt, who has now retired from international rugby, and Dallaglio were subjected to fierce criticism for speaking out. As a result, both tried to justify their comments and that has had an influence on the RFU's decision not to take any action.

In a statement, the RFU said: "Chief executive Francis Baron and elite rugby director Rob Andrew have completed their review of the books.

"The management board have decided in all the circumstances not to refer the matter to the RFU disciplinary officer and no further action in respect of the books or of their newspaper serialisation will be taken. Both players have been informed accordingly.

"The RFU have taken into account the recent public comments made by both players, who accept that the timing of the release of the books was not ideal, and the widespread criticism the players and the book extracts, relating to the World Cup, received, especially from the media."

The RFU also confirmed today they will continue to review the squad rules regarding autobiographies.

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