Owen Farrell cleared for England’s Six Nations opener after ban confirmed

Owen Farrell speaks with the referee during the Gallagher Premiership match (PA)

Owen Farrell will be free to be selected for England’s Six Nations opener against Scotland after only being banned for four matches for a dangerous tackle.

Farrell faced a disciplinary panel on Tuesday after his shoulder made contact with the head of Jack Clement in the 75th minute of the Gloucester vs Saracens Premiership clash at Kingsholm on Friday.

Farrell accepted foul play but challenged that it met the red card threshold, however, the panel upheld the charge and Farrell received a four match ban. This will be reduced to a three week ban if the player completes the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme.

England open their Six Nations against Scotland on 4 February with three Saracens matches scheduled before.

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