England coach Steve Borthwick was left hoping for a rapid finish to rugby's often lengthy disciplinary procedures after Billy Vunipola joined Owen Farrell as a Rugby World Cup doubt by being sent off during a 29-10 warm-up loss to Ireland.
Billy Vunipola of England reacts after being first yellow carded before it was later upgraded to a red card during the Summer International match between Ireland and England at Aviva Stadium on August 19, 2023 in Dublin, Ireland.England's Billy Vunipola's red card and Owen Farrell's potential suspension have left their Rugby World Cup participation in doubt after loss to Ireland.
Vunipola was dismissed for a head-high challenge on Andrew Porter early in the second half at Lansdowne Road. Farrell faces an independent disciplinary panel on Tuesday after World Rugby appealed against the controversial decision to downgrade his red card for a high shoulder-led challenge on Taine Basham during a 19-17 warm-up win over Wales at Twickenham to yellow.
"You're playing the number one ranked side in the world in their stadium and to go to 14 men it becomes a very difficult task at that point in time."
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