Wallabies winger Reece Hodge faces an uncertain future at the Rugby World Cup after being cited for a dangerous tackle during their opening win over Fiji in Sapporo.

More than 24 hours after the incident, citing commissioner John Montgomery of Scotland ruled Hodge had a case to answer following the tackle on flanker Peceli Yato which appeared to be high and involved no arms midway through the first half of Australia’s 39-21 victory.

The 25-year-old Melbourne Rebels utility back will attend an independent judicial committee hearing in Tokyo but a date and time are yet to be determined.

Fiji were incensed by the tackle, which stopped what was shaping as a likely try to Yato, metres from the line.

The impressive forward, arguably the game’s best player until then, was forced from the field with concussion and failed to return.

Fiji captain Dominiko Waqaniburotu’s demand for the incident to be reviewed by the television match official was granted. However, English official Rowan Kitt ruled there had been no foul play.

The incident was reportedly referred to Montgomery by the Fijians.

World Rugby referee boss Alain Rolland said on the eve of the tournament that officials would take a zero-tolerance approach to high tackles.