Rugby World Cup 2023: England captain Owen Farrell cleared to play in World Cup after red card overturned

Owen Farrell will be eligible to feature for England at the World Cup after the red card he received in Saturday’s warm-up game against Wales was overturned.

The England captain had a yellow card upgraded to red by the new 'Bunker' review system after a high challenge on Taine Basham during England's 19-17 win.

The decision was later overturned when it was decided that there was “a change in dynamic in the contact area” by Basham, which was influenced by Farrell’s team-mate Jamie George in the tackle.

The independent judicial committee (IJC) said: "After reviewing all the evidence, questioning the player in detail and hearing submissions from the player's representative, the committee concluded that the foul play review officer was wrong, on the balance of probabilities, to upgrade the yellow card issued to the player to a red card.

"The committee found that a late change in dynamics due to England number two's [George] interaction in the contact area brought about a sudden and significant change in direction from the ball carrier."

If the red card had stood, Farrell would have missed England's remaining warm-up matches against Ireland and Fiji, as well as their opening World Cup game against Argentina under a standard three-match ban.

But because the decision and the red card have been overturned, he is allowed to continue preparations as normal and will be available for selection by head coach Steve Borthwick.

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