Owen Farrell learns his fate after 'no-arms' tackle
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: England captain Owen Farrell has been suspended for a shoulder-led high challenge during Saracens’ 19-16 Premiership victory over Gloucester.
The Saracens flyhalf’s hit on Gloucester replacement Jack Clement came near the end of an intense encounter at Kingsholm before he landed a long-range drop-goal with the game’s final kick to edge his team home.
He escaped sanction on the pitch, with play carrying on, but was cited by citing commissioner James Hall after it was deemed Farrell’s right shoulder made contact with Clement’s chin.
Farrell faced the independent disciplinary panel chaired by Philip Evans KC with Becky Essex and Mitch Read on Tuesday.
He was consequently banned for four weeks but can be reduced to three games provided Farrell completes tackle school.
This means that Farrell will not miss the start of the Six Nations, should he be selected by new head coach Steve Borthwick.
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The RFU statement read: “The case of Owen Farrell, Saracens, was heard last night by an independent disciplinary panel chaired by Philip Evans with Becky Essex and Mitch Read.
“Farrell was cited following the game against Gloucester Rugby on Friday, January 6, for dangerous tackling, contrary to World Rugby law 9.13.
“Farrell accepted foul play but challenged that it met the red card threshold.
“However, the panel upheld the charge and Farrell received a four-match ban. This will be reduced to a three-week ban if the player completes the World Rugby coaching intervention programme.
England kicks off their Six Nations campaign against Scotland on February 4.
