Saracens’ England international wing Chris Ashton is at the centre of an alleged biting controversy following the Aviva Premiership champions’ punishing 27-12 victory over Northampton at Allianz Park.
Northampton rugby director Jim Mallinder confirmed after the game that Saints prop Alex Waller said he had been bitten on the hand.
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It followed a first-half incident when Ashton’s mouth appeared to make contact with Waller’s hand during a tangle on the floor.
“He (Waller) just repeated what he said to the referee (Greg Garner), in that he had been bitten on the hand,” Mallinder said.
Also asked about it during his post-match press conference, Saracens rugby director Mark McCall added: “I have heard the accusation.
“I haven’t seen the incident. These things will run its (their) course. I suppose there is a good chance that Chris will be cited as a result, so we will see what happens.”
Ashton received a 10-week ban last season for making contact with the eye area of Ulster back Luke Marshall during a European Champions Cup game, although he protested his innocence throughout.
If he is cited for biting – and the charge is proved – he could be looking at another long lay-off.
The 29-year-old former Northampton star, who has scored 19 tries in 39 appearances for England, is currently not part of England head coach Eddie Jones’ plans.
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