LEICESTER TIGERS head coach Geoff Parling shoved TNT Sports host Craig Doyle ahead of his side’s clash with Gloucester at Villa Park.
Parling, 42, was furious after a ball was kicked towards his players during their warm-up.
Regular host Doyle, 55, was welcoming ex-Yeovil and Bristol City ace Liam MacDevitt to TNT Sports‘ rugby broadcast team.
As an “initiation” – the Irishman challenged MacDevitt to attempt a conversion from the wing.
The 31-year-old produced a decent effort, but sent his kick wide of the post.
His effort did not hit any of the Leicester players as they were put through their paces.
But regardless, Parling was was seething.
Thinking that the former England international had approached for a lighthearted chat, Doyle asked: “Would you sign him Geoff?”
Parling shoved Doyle away before gesturing towards MacDevitt – all live on TNT Sports.
He said: “That’s not on. That’s f***ing not on. Get off the pitch.”
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Keeping his composure during the awkward exchange, Doyle said: “Oh sorry, okay. Geoff not happy about that. Apologies for language.”
PREM Rugby, previously called Premiership Rugby, receives around £40million per year from TNT Sports for broadcast rights.
Leicester’s trip Gloucester began a big showcase day for the competition, in the absence of Premier League football.
The match was moved to Villa Park, with subsequent games between Bristol Bears and Harlequins, and Saracens and Northampton, taking place at the Principality Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium respectively.
Fans on social media were left split by the incident.
One wrote: “To be fair, that could’ve caused an injury to one of the players shouldn’t be kicking there due the warm up.”
Although a second pointed out: “He should probably remember he wouldn’t have a professional contract if it wasn’t for TV money and the razzmatazz (all be it nonsense) that goes with it!”
A third took issue with both parties, adding: “Stupid and disrespectful place to be trying that. Parling’s response equally idiotic. I’m sure everyone will get over it though.”
And another commented: “Miserable Geoff Parling should not be swearing anywhere near TV cameras. Unacceptable on every level. Well handled Craig.”
Leicester went on to win the contest 36-17 in front of more than 20,000 fans.
