Owen Farrell is free to lead England’s assault on New Zealand after escaping any disciplinary action for his controversial tackle against South Africa.

World Rugby has confirmed that there was no citing arising from the match, clearing Farrell to prepare for the All Blacks’ visit to Twickenham on Saturday.

Farrell stopped Andre Esterhuizen in added time with a shoulder-led tackle to the chest without wrapping an arm around the Springboks centre, but referee Angus Gardner declined to award a kickable penalty that would have decided the match.

Citing commissioner Keith Brown had until 5pm (local time|) on Sunday to decide whether the challenge warranted a red card, which would have triggered a citing and disciplinary hearing.