France lock Paul Gabrillagues banned for six weeks

France lock Paul Gabrillagues has been suspended for six weeks following the recently concluded encounter against Scotland at Allianz Riviera on Saturday.

The incident happened during the 16th minute of the game where the 26-year-old was alleged to have a struck the head of the opponent and appeared before an independent World Rugby disciplinary committee comprising of Simon Thomas (Wales) alongside Donal Courtney (Ireland) and Valeriu Toma (Romania).

During the disciplinary meeting, the panel deemed that Gabrillagues' act was in contrary to the Law 9.20 that states “a player must not charge into a ruck or maul” and warranted a red card.

As a result, the Stade Francais lock was originally handed a 10-week ban that was reduced to six weeks taking into consideration his conduct during the plea and other mitigating factors.

Gabrillagues has played 13 Tests for France since his debut that came during November 2017 and has scored a solitary try.

His suspension will come to an end on 6th October although Gabrillagues can appeal against the decision in the next 48 hours.