Liam Williams to miss Wales' Six Nations opener after three-week ban

Wales fullback Liam Williams will miss Six Nations opening game against Ireland following a three-week ban that was handed to him after his red-card incident while playing for Scarlets.

The 29-year-old was sent-off in the 38th minute during the Pro14 game against Cardiff Blues for diving into a ruck and making contact with the head of Shane Lewis-Hughes.

Williams, who has played 67 Tests for Wales appeared before a disciplinary panel and was initially handed a four week ban that was reduced by a week taking into consideration the mitigating factors.

With Scarlets expected to play two games in the next three games, Williams will additionally miss the Six Nations opening game against Ireland to be played at Principality Stadium scheduled on 7th February.

"The player accepted that he had committed an act of foul play which warranted a red card," read a Pro14 statement.

"The incident was found to merit a mid-range entry point, which indicates a four-week suspension for this offence.

"The judicial officer determined that there were factors, including the player's remorse, which warranted mitigation of one week.

"The player is suspended from participating in the next three meaningful fixtures for which he is fit and available for selection."