England have reportedly been hit with a hefty fine by World Rugby for their response to New Zealand's haka ahead of their semi-final clash.
Eddie Jones' side adopted a V-shaped formation before the All Blacks began their traditional Maori war dance ahead of the Yokohama showdown.
However, England encroached into opposition territory, with a number of players crossing the halfway line, which prompted the officials to intervene.
World Rugby regulations state that no member of the opposing team is allowed to enter New Zealand's half while they are performing the haka.
The Guardian now report that England have been fined a four-figure sum, believed to be worth between £1,000 and £2,500. France were hit with a £2,500 fine for a similar response eight years ago, however England's punishment will reportedly be less than that.
Owen Farrell was pictured smiling while he stood at the point of the V shape, while Mako Vunipola later said: “We wanted not to just stand there and let them come at us.
"We knew it would rile them up."
Another curious layer to this story is how England's response was initially met by World Rugby.
They posted a video of England's stance on their YouTube page alongside the caption: "England’s incredible response to intense New Zealand haka."
However World Rugby acted to reprimand the World Cup finalists and have fined them after their breach of the 'cultural ritual protocol', which the sport's governing body implemented in 2007.
