Stars in clear over books

The RFU decided to conduct a review after both men made critical comments about the organisation of England's World Cup campaign and coach Brian Ashton. Both players were part of Sir Clive Woodward's World Cup-winning squad in 2003 and appeared again in this year's final against South Africa in Paris.

Catt, who has now retired from international rugby, and Dallaglio both moved to explain or justify their comments in the explosive aftermath of their serialisations and that seems to have had an influence of the decision not to impose any punishment.

An RFU statement read: "Chief executive Francis Baron OBE and elite rugby director Rob Andrew MBE have completed their review of the books recently released by Lawrence Dallaglio MBE and Mike Catt MBE.

"The RFU management board has 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 has 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 RWC 2007, received, especially from the media."

The RFU had previously released a statement criticising the pair's decision to go public with their concerns.

It said: ``The board recorded their extreme disappointment that two senior players have chosen to criticise publicly members of the England coaching team and disclosed alleged proceedings within England team meetings."

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