World Rugby disciplinary chiefs have admitted that All Blacks centre Malakai Fekitoa should not have been on the field to score the winning try in New Zealand's 21‑9 victory over Ireland.
Fekitoa has been suspended for one week for his high tackle on Simon Zebo that only drew a yellow card in the Dublin clash.
Referee Jaco Peyper sin‑binned Fekitoa in a controversial match that later drew 12 citing referrals, 11 pertaining to the All Blacks.
Fekitoa scored two of New Zealand's tries, but avoided a red card that disciplinary bosses have now conceded should have been issued.
World Rugby says the disciplinary committee found that Fekitoa's actions would have warranted a red card, as he had acted recklessly rather than intentionally.
Ireland team manager Mick Kearney said earlier in the week the team were disappointed with the officiating fall‑out.
Fekitoa will miss New Zealand's final test of the year against France in Paris at 9am this Sunday.
Source: Radio NZ
