Bundee Aki has been left out of Ireland’s squad for their Six Nations training camp in Portugal following a misconduct complaint after Connacht’s defeat by Leinster.
Misconduct complaint under investigation
The 35-year-old centre is alleged to have engaged with match officials “in a manner which may be deemed to be in breach of the league’s disciplinary rules” during the United Rugby Championship fixture.
Aki, who has won 68 caps since making his debut in 2017, will appear before an independent disciplinary committee on Wednesday.
An IRFU statement said: “The IRFU does not tolerate any form of disrespect shown towards match officials and does not condone actions that fall below expected standards.”
Postlethwaite called up as replacement
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has replaced Aki with Ulster’s uncapped centre Jude Postlethwaite ahead of the opening Six Nations match against France on 5 February in Paris.
Postlethwaite, who is yet to make his international debut, now has an opportunity to impress at senior level during the crucial tournament build-up.
Further squad setbacks for Ireland
Ireland have already been forced into additional changes to their 37-man squad. Prop Jack Boyle was injured while playing for Leinster against Connacht, while Munster flanker Tom Ahern has also withdrawn.
They have been replaced by Connacht’s Billy Bohan and Ulster forward Cormac Izuchukwu.
Focus shifts to Six Nations opener
Despite the off-field issues, Ireland remain focused on their Six Nations campaign, beginning with a tough away clash against France.
With key players unavailable, Farrell will hope his reshuffled squad can maintain momentum and deliver a strong start to the tournament.
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