Due to a disciplinary issue, Bundy Aki is likely to miss Ireland’s opening Six Nations match against France.
The center did not travel to Portugal with Andy Farrell; Ulster’s uncapped centre, Jude Postlethwaite, was brought in.
It has been confirmed that, on Wednesday, Aki will face an independent disciplinary hearing following Connacht’s defeat to Leinster “in relation to a misconduct charge made against him under the United Rugby Championship Disciplinary Rules.”.
Aki has been “alleged” to have engaged with match officials on various occasions in a manner that could be considered a violation of the league’s disciplinary rules regarding misconduct.
Bundy Aki did not travel to Portugal.
Ireland is also conducting its own internal investigation and stated: “The IRFU can confirm that Bundy Aki did not travel to Portugal with the men’s senior squad due to disciplinary reasons.”
“The IRFU does not tolerate any form of disrespect towards match officials and does not condone conduct that falls below the standards expected of players representing Irish rugby.
“The IRFU is investigating the matter further internally and no further comment will be made at this time.”
Ireland’s Six Nations fixtures
- France – Stade de France – Thursday, February 5 – 8.10pm (GMT)
- Italy – Aviva Stadium – Saturday, February 14 – 2.10pm (GMT)
- England – Allianz Stadium, Twickenham – Saturday, February 21 – 2.10pm (GMT)
- Wales – Aviva Stadium – Friday, March 6 – 8.10pm (GMT)
- Scotland – Aviva Stadium – Saturday, March 14 – 2.10pm (GMT)
