Flannery waiting to discover fate

Jerry Flannery is likely to have to wait until tomorrow to learn if he is to be cited by for an apparent stamp on Clermont Auvergne…

Jerry Flannery is likely to have to wait until tomorrow to learn if he is to be cited by for an apparent stamp on Clermont Auvergne flanker Julien Bonnaire.

The citing commisioner has up to 50 hours after the kick-off the game in which the incident happened to make his decision, meaning if Flannery is to be cited it must be done before 5pm tomorrow.

If he is cited, a three-man disciplinary panel will rule on the case and will most likely hear from Flannery himself before deciding whether he is guilty or not. If guilty, the panel must decide whether the incident was a 'lower end', 'mid range' or 'top end' foul.

Each category carries a different punishment. 'Lower end' warrants a minimum two week suspension, mid range incurs a minimum of five, while 'top end' could, in theory, mean Flannery is banned for anything from nine weeks to 52 weeks.

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It will be an anxious wait for the Ireland hooker who may miss out on the entire Six Nations campaign if subjected to the full rigours of the law.

Ireland's first Six Nations game is against Italy in Corke Park on February 2nd.

Flannery, of course, is just as valuable to Munster and will be itching to feature in their final European Cup pool game against Wasps in Thomond Park.

The game will determine which of the competition's last two champions will progress to the knockout stages.