This article is more than 7 years old

This article is more than 7 years old

Brian O'Driscoll has been cited for stamping on Simone Favaro in Ireland's 22-15 Six Nations defeat by Italy on Saturday.

A brief statement issued by the tournament organisers confirmed that the independent citing commissioner, Aurwel Morgan, has decided the incident warranted further scrutiny.

The date and location for O'Driscoll's hearing have yet to be announced.

O'Driscoll, who was winning his 125th cap for Ireland, lifted and planted his right leg into the chest of Favaro, the Italy openside flanker, and was sent to the sin-bin by the referee, Wayne Barnes.

That act, born of frustration, marred what may be O'Driscoll's final game for his country. The Leinster centre has stated publicly that he is yet to make a decision about his international future but many observers expect the 34-year-old to retire this summer.

However, Declan Kidney, the Ireland head coach, believes that O'Driscoll's form in the Six Nations shows that he can carry on at this level.

"Brian has had a strong Six Nations. He was outstanding against Wales and had a good match against France. I thought he did well against Italy too," Kidney said.

"He's earned the space and time to be able to make up his own mind. Players are the only ones who know when the time is right to go."

A statement issued by the Six Nations read: "Brian O'Driscoll, the Ireland centre, has been cited by the independent citing commissioner for an alleged stamping or trampling on an opponent, contrary to Law 10.4 (b), in the RBS Six Nations match between Italy and Ireland on Saturday 16th March 2013. Details of the hearing will be announced later."