Ireland Rugby: IRFU investigating 'cowardly' racist abuse directed towards Edwin Edogbo after debut vs Italy

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) is investigating racist abuse directed at Edwin Edogbo following his international debut.

Munster second row Edogbo was targeted on social media after coming on as a replacement in Saturday's 20-13 Guinness Six Nations victory over Italy in Dublin.

Posts on the IRFU's X and Instagram accounts celebrating Edogbo's first cap attracted a number of racist comments.

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"We're aware of some targeted abuse online in recent days and continue to work with Signify (a data technology company which specialises in protecting against online abuse) and the relevant authorities to report it," the IRFU said in a statement.

"We will also continue to fully support all affected by the cowardly actions of a minority and investigations are under way alongside our partners Signify.

"It is clear that racist abuse has no place in Irish society and the IRFU has a zero tolerance policy towards racism of any form."

Edogbo played the final 10 minutes against Italy after coming on for James Ryan. The 23-year-old, who was born and raised in Cobh, County Cork to Nigerian parents, received a huge cheer from the Aviva Stadium crowd before helping Andy Farrell's side hold on for victory during a nail-biting finale.

Ireland continue their Six Nations campaign on Saturday against England at Twickenham.