Leinster have dismissed claims by Northampton Saints prop Brian Mujati that he was racially abused in a friendly on Friday and put it down to a misinterpretation before declaring the matter closed.

Leinster's South African tight forwards Heinke van der Merwe and Steven Sykes were accused by Mujati of calling him a 'baboon' at scrum-time in their match on Friday.

The 12-cap Springbok posted the allegations on twitter although they were subsequently removed.

Ireland's Sunday Independent newspaper said Van der Merwe and Sykes, who deny racist abuse, were expected to claim they use the word 'bobbejaan' as a trigger call at the scrum in order to gee up the pack and that it comes from their time playing in South Africa. The word translates as baboon.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Irish club said: "Following the allegations made by a Northampton Saints player in the aftermath of Friday night's friendly between Leinster Rugby and Northampton Saints, Leinster Rugby acknowledge that there was an exchange during the match between two Leinster players which was misinterpreted."

It added: "It was regrettable that any offence was caused. Both clubs have agreed that the matter is now closed and will now focus on preparing for their respective league campaigns."