Exeter's James Hanks cleared of eye gouging

Exeter Chiefs forward James Hanks has been cleared of eye gouging an opponent by the Rugby Football Union.

The 28-year-old was cited with allegedly poking Saracens lock Steve Borthwick in the eye during the Chiefs' narrow victory.

An RFU panel, chaired by by chief disciplinary officer Judge Jeff Blackett, has this evening dismissed the incident as "accidental".

"The panel concluded that James Hanks's finger did make contact with Steve Borthwick's eye," said Blackett in a statement.

"However, the contact occurred in a dynamic situation during a ruck, when James Hanks was driving forward and putting his hand down to prevent him from falling over.

"The contact was entirely accidental."

Exeter have made a strong start to the season and currently lie fifth in the Aviva Premiership.