Munster player alleges groin foul as Leinster-Munster clash halted for review
Munster No. 8 Gavin Coombes claimed a Leinster opponent grabbed his testicles, prompting the referee to stop the game and launch an investigation.
In a Pro14 fixture at Dublin's Aviva Stadium, Munster forward Gavin Coombes accused a Leinster player of grabbing his testicles, a claim relayed by Munster captain Tadgh Beirne to referee Andrew Brace. Play was halted while the TMO, Colin Stanley, reviewed footage, but no visual confirmation was found; the matter was nevertheless escalated to the citing commissioner. Munster head coach Clayton McMillan pledged unconditional backing for Coombes, whereas Leinster boss Leo Cullen said he could not see any wrongdoing.
Despite the controversy, Leinster overturned a 13-0 deficit to defeat Munster 24-18, with tries from Ryan Baird, Charlie Tector, Jamie Osborne and a late score by Ben O’Connor for Munster. The allegation now awaits formal disciplinary proceedings.
Why it matters
The claim raises concerns about player safety and conduct in professional rugby, prompting a formal inquiry.
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