Ashton suspended for 13 weeks for biting

Former England wing Chris Ashton has been banned for 13 weeks after being found guilty of biting Northampton Saints player Alex Waller.

Ashton was called to appear before a RFU disciplinary panel after being charged with acts contrary to good sportsmanship (law 10.4(m)).

The Saracens wing was cited for allegedly biting Alex Waller of Northampton Saints on two separate occasions during their Aviva Premiership match last weekend. The first incident occurred in the 24th minute of the match and the second, one minute later.

Ashton contested both counts, however the independent panel found the first charge proven but dismissed the second charge. The winger was given a 13-week ban. He is free to play again on the 19 December 2016.

The Chairman of the panel Philip Evans QC said: “Having considered detailed evidence the panel concluded that during the course of a ruck Chris Ashton bit the arm of Alex Waller at a time that Mr Waller was attempting to clear him out. The panel concluded it was a low-end entry point aggravated by his previous record.”

The RFU disciplinary panel comprised of Philip Evans QC (chairman) with Tom Rees and Paula Carter.

This is not the first time that Ashton has been banned for foul play as he was banned for 10 weeks earlier this year and was given a 10 week ban in January for coming into contact with Ulster’s Luke Marshall’s eyes.