RFU to investigate Saracens v Harlequins TMO controversy as Joe Marler wades in

Colin Newboult 25 Mar 2024 11:08 AM

Joe Marler and Owen Farrell after Saracens' victory over Harlequins in the Premiership in 2024.

The Rugby Football Union will investigate the controversial television match official incident from the Harlequins v Saracens match on Saturday.

During the Premiership clash, TMO Stuart Terheege seemingly refused to review the apparent foul play on Sarries captain Owen Farrell.

Terheege stated that he did not want to be seen to be influenced by co-commentator Austin Healey when the former England back brought up the hit on Farrell.

What was said

He was heard saying on TNT Sports’ coverage: “The problem I have got now is that it looks like Austin has instigated it, because we’re late, so I don’t want to talk about it, OK?”

OK, I’ve found the footage. You can clearly hear an exchange that was DEFINITELY not intended to be heard by the @rugbyontnt viewers. pic.twitter.com/R2g4aoYsnJ

— Tom Finn-Kelcey (@TFinnKelcey) March 23, 2024

When the incident was then shown, Terheege appeared to state: “Oh come on, don’t show it because it…” before he was either cut off or realised that his comments were being broadcast.

Progressive Rugby has since slammed the TMO’s actions, believing that they were a ‘dereliction of duty’.

“Whatever the reason, it is clear a decision has been taken to ignore foul, reckless or dangerous play because of concern that it had been highlighted by a pundit,” Professor John Fairclough of the player welfare group said.

“This is hugely concerning and a clear dereliction of a match official’s duty to ensure player safety. An explanation should be sought as a matter of urgency.”

‘Ego got in’ TMO’s way after apparent foul play on Owen Farrell is wilfully ignored

Investigation(s)

The RFU, who oversee all the match officials, have since confirmed that an investigation will take place into the encounter between Saracens and Harlequins as part of its general review.

“The RFU conducts regular reviews following all games that take place, as will be the case for Saracens v Harlequins,” an RFU spokesperson said.

Premiership Rugby also released a statement, adding: “Premiership Rugby will review all incidents and follow the same process followed every week.”

The concerning incident has sparked debate online, with many questioning why video referees have access to the commentary feed.

It is understood that TMOs are able to hear the commentators during the matches, but their feed is then cut off when they are reviewing an incident to avoid cases of the commentary influencing decisions.

Harlequins’ Joe Marler, whose team would have been affected had the foul play been reviewed, waded in and called it “ridiculous” on X, formerly Twitter.