New Zealand referee Steve Walsh has been suspended by World Cup chiefs following an altercation with a member of England's management team.
The ban begins this afternoon and will expire on Monday morning.
Walsh, one of the world's leading referees, was scheduled to be a touch judge at today's Pool B game between France and the USA in Wollongong.
Rugby World Cup today stressed that Walsh will be available for selection beyond the pool stages.
England fitness adviser Dave Reddin was last night cleared by RWC independent judicial officer Brian McLaughlin over an alleged incident involving himself and the fourth official - Walsh - when England beat Samoa in Melbourne last Sunday.
"Following an incident involving the fourth official, Mr Steve Walsh, and a member of the England management team at the conclusion of the England versus Samoa match on Sunday, October 26th, an investigation has taken place today," said RWC, in a statement.
"Mr Walsh has subsequently been suspended for inappropriate behaviour during an exchange with a member of the England management team. He is suspended from 1400 Friday, October 31st, 2003, until 0900 on Monday, November 3rd.
