There was a collective sense of shock in the world of rugby earlier t0day when it was announced that Owen Farrell had avoided punishment for his red card against Wales at the weekend.
The England captain was sent off in the game for a dangerous high tackle on Welsh player Taine Basham, something that usually results in a ban for the offending player. There were suggestions that the 31-year old could be suspended for over five games, a punishment that could have potentially ruled him out the entire upcoming World Cup campaign.
However, it was revealed this afternoon that this would not be the case, with the authorities overturning the red card and allowing Farrell to return to the field of play with immediate effect. Their reasoning for doing so has been widely questioned.
England star's slip of the tongue discussing Owen Farrell punishment
This was excellent news for England, who already look to be in fairly rough shape heading into the tournament next month. The task in front of them would have become even more difficult had their captain been handed a lengthy suspension.
As a result, you get the sense that their players will be relieved with the decision. Of course, they also know that it was a rather fortunate one.
That certainly seems to be true of George Ford, who spoke to the BBC about the overturning of the Owen Farrell red card. The interview featured a rather unfortunate slip of the tongue where he all but admitted that his team had been handed a get out of jail card on this occasion before having second thoughts about the words he was using.
George Ford’s “getting away with” slip-up is here: https://t.co/p4F5pGD3UM pic.twitter.com/60nThjCWGO
— Jamie Phillips (@JNPhillips4) August 15, 2023
It’s great for us in terms of having our captain and leader back in, and getting away with… obviously going through the process and cracking on as normal.
The words of a man who knows that his team have gotten away with one.
Owen Farrell will be available for selection when England face Ireland at the Aviva Stadium this weekend, with Steve Borthwick's side opening their World Cup campaign against Argentina on September 9th.
They will be hoping that the out-half can avoid any more unfortunate tackles before then.
SEE ALSO: Rugby Fans In Disbelief As Owen Farrell Avoids Ban Despite Sickening Wales Red Card
