Chris Ashton to miss England's 6 Nations as 10-week ban appeal is rejected

Chris Ashton's hopes of playing for England in the RBS 6 Nations Championship this season are over.

An independent appeal committee has decided not to allow an appeal by the Saracens wing against a 10-week suspension, European Professional Club Rugby announced.

Ashton was banned after being cited for making contact with an opponent's eye during a European Champions Cup match between Saracens and Ulster last month. Ashton will be free to play again on March 28.