England World Cup captain Phil Vickery has been cited for kicking an opponent during his team's tournament opener against the USA in Lens.
Vickery now faces a disciplinary hearing that will affect England's preparations for their critical Pool A clash against South Africa in Paris on Friday, a game Vickery could now miss.
The Wasps prop has been reported by New Zealander Steven Heines, the match citing commissioner.
Vickery lashed out at USA centre Paul Emerick during the first half in Lens, but the incident went unnoticed and unpunished by referee Jonathan Kaplan.
Vickery later claimed there was no malice intended, while Emerick also moved to play down the incident.
The England management have been informed of the citing and the disciplinary hearing that will now be convened is the last thing England need as they head into their biggest Test since winning the World Cup in 2003.
Outhalf Jonny Wilkinson is a major doubt for the game as he battles to overcome an ankle ligament injury, while Vickery's fate now rests in the hands of tournament disciplinary chiefs.
Emerick is also in hot water after being cited for a dangerous tackle on England outhalf Olly Barkley.
Emerick was sin-binned by Kaplan, but Heines has decided the incident now warrants closer attention.
Like Vickery, Emerick can expect to face a hearing probably in the next 48 hours.
