Joe Marler free to face France

Joe Marler is free to play against France after escaping punishment over two incidents in England‘s win against Wales at Twickenham last Saturday.
The Harlequins prop was first seen striking Welsh loosehead Rob Evans with his elbow and then called tighthead Samson Lee a “Gyspsy boy” in a scuffle heard on the referee’s microphone.
The 25-year-old apologised after making the comment and Lee, from the Traveller community, said he accepted the comment as “banter”.
Six Nations Rugby said in a statement it was “aware of the seriousness of Mr Marler’s comment and does not in anyway condone what was said” but accepted it was said “in the heat of the moment”.
It added that Marler “deeply regretted what he had said”, had “immediately and unprompted apologised to Mr Lee” and noted that England head coach Eddie Jones “had reprimanded Mr Marler and reminded him of his responsibilities as an international rugby player”.
“Having taken all the facts into account, no further disciplinary action will be taken,” it said. “Six Nations Rugby consider that this matter is now closed.”
Marler said: “I do not condone racism in any form, at any time, deeply regret the incident and intend to reflect the behaviours expected of an England player going forward.
“Once again, I apologise for the upset my inappropriate remark has caused.”