Of all the sporting organisations in the world, the England rugby team may be the one to be thankful you're not part of right now.
Following back to back defeats to Wales and Australia, Stuart Lancaster's men are currently suffering the humiliation of being the only host nation to never make it out of their pool in their own World Cup. And just as you thought it couldn't get any worse for hosts it seems they've landed themselves in a spot of hot water following an unseen incident with match officials at half time on Saturday night.
It is suggested that two members of England's coaching staff approached match officials as the teams were heading down the tunnel during the break when the Wallabies were cruising by 17-3. The approach came after Australia dominated the scrum during the opening forty minutes with countless decisions handed to the visitors.
Speaking to officials at half time is a big no-no and CCTV footage of the alleged incident is likely to be used in any investigation.
Australia coach Michael Cheika found himself in a similar position earlier this year following what was described as a "short and polite" exchange with officials during a Super 15 clash. Despite the supposed friendly nature of his conversation Cheika was still issued a formal warning despite no formal evidence showing he influenced the referee's decisions.
In England's case, if there is concrete CCTV footage of the alleged incident, they could see themselves facing a severe punishment, further adding to the misery they've suffered over the last two weeks.
[ESPN]
