France flanker Axelle Berthoumieu will miss the World Cup semi-final against England after being banned for 12 matches for biting Ireland's Aoife Wafer in Sunday's quarter-final.

Berthoumieu faced a disciplinary hearing on Monday after being cited for the incident in the second half of France's 18-13 comeback victory against Ireland.

France had stormed back from 13-0 down at half-time to book their place in the last four but the result was quickly overshadowed by controversy when footage emerged appearing to show Berthoumieu biting Wafer's arm during a breakdown.

Wafer was seen speaking to referee Aimee Barrett-Theron, gesturing toward her arm and indicating she had been bitten.

Ireland captain Sam Monaghan later confirmed she had raised the issue with officials, though no action was t

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