Wales winger George North will miss Wales’ friendly against France on October 24th due to his suspension after receiving the first red card of his career.
The 28-year-old was handed a four-match ban after being dismissed for a dangerous challenge on the Dragons’ Ashton Hewitt during the 20-20 Guinness PRO14 draw back in August.
However, North will likely miss hsi countries Autumn opener with the game set to count as the fourth match of his time out.
Meanwhile, Owen Farrell will be free to play for England as he will have served his five-match ban, such are the swings and roundabouts of rugby’s disciplinary process.
Sir Clive Woodward, England’s World Cup winning coach, was among those criticising Farrell at the weekend.
“Farrell has to get these tackles out of his system. Not only can they cost his side dear but as the England captain he has to be better,” he said.
“The game is no longer willing to tolerate such dangerous tackles, as the England captain is about to discover.”
JOIN THE RUCK:
Owen Farrell facts
1. He started off in Rugby League
His education began in rugby league – he joined Wigan St Patricks at the age of eight.
2. School days
It’s well known that the Saracens star went to school with England teammate George Ford, however, it’s less well known that he went onto study Business at Hertfordshire University.
3. Celebration
Farrell celebrates every point he scores by linking his index fingers together to make a ‘JJ’ sign, the Joining Jack salute, Joining Jack being a charity dedicated to the needs of sufferers of Duchenne muscular dystrophy.[ Farrell is also a patron for Duchenne muscular dystrophy charity Duchenne UK.
