Sharks duo in hot water

Sale Sharks duo Andy Powell and Tom Brady are to appear at an RFU disciplinary hearing in Leeds on Tuesday following Saturday’s Premiership match at Bath.

Powell has been charged with conduct prejudicial to the interests of the Union or the game contrary to RFU Rule 5.12.

He is alleged to have mouthed foul language and to have made an offensive hand gesture to spectators.

Powell has a poor disciplinary record and could subsequently find himself facing a lengthy suspension if found guilty.

In July 2010 the Cardiff Blues released Powell from his contract after being arrested "for taking and driving away a golf buggy" a few hours after Wales’ last-minute victory over Scotland in the Six Nations.

Less than a year later, Powell parted ways with London Wasps after being suspended for his involvement in a bar brawl in West London.

Brady has been charged with an alleged dangerous tackle on Ben Skirving following a report from RFU citing officer John Byett.

The hearings take place at the Leeds Brighouse Holiday Inn with a panel of Anthony Davies (chair), John Loughton and David MacInnes.