The latest rugby news from Wales and around the world

Lions star cleared after accusation

British and Irish Lions star Tadhg Furlong has been cleared of foul play following an allegation that he grabbed an opponent's groin during Leinster's victory over Munster.

The Ireland prop was cited following an incident involving Munster back-rower Gavin Coombes during Leinster's 24-18 win at the Aviva Stadium.

Coombes raised the allegation with referee Andrew Brace during the first half of the contest, prompting television match official Colin Stanley to review the incident. However, the TMO was unable to find conclusive video evidence of any wrongdoing.

Despite that, Furlong was subsequently cited under World Rugby Law 9.27, which states that "a player must not do anything that is against the spirit of good sportsmanship including but not limited to grabbing, twisting or squeezing the genitals".

The 33-year-old, who has toured with the British and Irish Lions on three occasions, faced a disciplinary hearing on Thursday.

However, the independent panel unanimously dismissed the complaint.

In its findings, the committee said it had "unanimously concluded the citing complaint against the player should be dismissed, on the basis that he did not commit an act of foul play contrary to Law 9.27".

The panel also made clear that it accepted Coombes had provided "an honest account of his recollection of events surrounding the incident", despite finding that Furlong had not committed an act of foul play.

The decision means the experienced tighthead prop will face no disciplinary sanction and is free to return to action.

It also comes as a boost to Ireland ahead of their upcoming Nations Championship fixtures, with Furlong now available for selection for home matches against Argentina, Fiji and South Africa next month.

He will also be eligible to feature in Ireland's finals weekend fixture at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium.

Hennessey hails Russell influence

Louie Hennessey says he's benefited from the experience of climbing through the pecking order at Bath - and working alongside Scotland star Finn Russell.

The versatile 22-year-old is likely to be jostling with the likes of Max Llewellyn, Joe Hawkins and the uncapped Aneurin Owen in Steve Tandy's Wales midfield options.

However, having faced a similar battle for contention at Bath with the likes of Ollie Lawrence, Max Ojomoh and Cameron Redpath, he says he feels well placed to make his mark.

"The level that they operate at and what they do on the training field and off it has been great for my development."

Hennessey also says his experience of working so closely with Scotland star Russell has similarly been a huge benefit.

"It's the speed of thought with Finn," he said. "As a youngster coming through I trained on the other side and defended against him, reacting to stuff and trying to think two steps ahead."

Cardiff boss disappointed by derby timing

Cardiff head coach Corniel van Zyl has admitted it is disappointing to be playing a Welsh derby this weekend without a number of Wales internationals.

His side travel to Swansea on Saturday night to take on the Ospreys at St Helen's, with six Wales squad members unavailable for selection. As for their opponents, they are without four Wales internationals.

Cardiff have been boosted by Wales releasing Josh Adams back to them, with the wing in need of minutes ahead of the Nations Championship next month.

"Josh has only played close to 100 minutes and if you are to look at Test match preparation you probably need almost double that, so it makes sense," said van Zyl.

He added: "I would say that you want to see derbies with full squads and both teams being able to select whoever they want.

"It's in the schedule and unfortunately there are priorities with Wales. We lose a few and they lose a few, which will test the squads and lead to opportunities.

"There were fewer players available for us but we are excited with the group of players that we have named for what will be a spicy derby."

Smith 'disappointed' with Grant after shock exit

Franco Smith admits he was disappointed with Roddy Grant’s conduct, which ultimately led to the assistant coach being sacked from his role at Glasgow Warriors.

A statement on Tuesday confirmed Grant had left Scotstoun following an 'internal process'.

No further details have been released about the circumstances of Grant's departure, and while Smith wouldn’t comment on the disciplinary process involved, he stressed the importance of the club's culture and ingrained values.

“Look, the process was followed and we're just going to stick to the task and carry on each week," said Smith.

"Obviously we’re disappointed with everything that happened, but that's that. I think the club dealt with it and we're now heading on to the next thing. That is the way we've approached it.”

Asked if he felt let down by Grant, he added: “Look, we're a tight ship here and everybody knows exactly what my values are and where we stand and how we do things here. The culture of the club has been tried and tested over the last five years, and it comes up flying. That is what I'm proud of.

“This incident didn't influence anything that we did or do or want to become, or want to do, and the type of messaging that we give to the players. So, no, I think we weren't disrupted.

“Again, I think we wanted to give another person an opportunity to be involved in this environment and grow their coaching career. It's not what we can get, it's what we can give, and that was the approach.”