Joubert in firing line again

World Rugby is investigating Craig Joubert after New Zealand played with an extra man against Australia at the Sydney Sevens last weekend.

Joubert officiated the Pool A game between the sides, when New Zealand scored a match-levelling try while having eight players on the field. The game ended in a draw, which prevented Australia from topping the pool. 

But while the governing body says it is looking into Joubert and his assistants for not noticing the man-over, the result will stand despite the incident being brought to World Rugby's attention before Sunday's knockout matches.

Furthermore, World Rugby has confirmed no action will be taken against the hosts, who went on to win the Cup final against Australia the following day. 

'Not much of an investigation, if that was what it was. How could that happen? In an Olympic year, if that comes down to a gold medal game, there will be a lot of disappointed people. We have got to make sure those simple mistakes don't happen in a big tournament,' said Australia coach Andy Friend.

Photo: Mark Kolbe/Getty Images

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