A commentator who described a French player as a "stroppy little frog" during the Rugby World Cup has been criticised by a TV watchdog for using racist language.

Steve Smith's comment came during a World Cup match between France and Fiji last year.

It prompted 14 viewers to complain that it was offensive and unnecessary.

The Independent Television Commission ruled the remark on 16 October fell foul of its programme code.

Reprimanded

Smith made the comment after a French player threw the ball at an opponent, earning a rebuke from the match referee.

The comment horrified broadcaster London Weekend Television and the show's producers.

Contributors had been briefed beforehand about the danger of causing offence.

Smith was reprimanded for his remark and an apology was issued on behalf of ITV Sport.