Saracens will not appeal against the 13-week ban for biting handed down to Chris Ashton by a three-strong disciplinary panel on Tuesday.
Ashton was cited for biting the arm of the Alex Waller twice during Saracens’ victory over Northampton. The panel upheld one charge and threw out the second, leading to the wing getting a ban that keeps him out of action until 19 December.
Ashton was given an extra week, having denied both charges, because he was banned for 10 weeks in January for putting his hand near the eye area of an opponent.
“Saracens can confirm that they will not appeal Tuesday evening’s decision from an independent RFU disciplinary panel to suspend Chris Ashton for 13 weeks for acts contrary to good sportsmanship,” read a statement form the Premiership and European champions. “Ashton contested both counts, however the independent panel found the first charge proven but dismissed the second charge. The Saracens winger was given a 13-week ban. He is free to play again on the 19 December 2016.”
Mark McCall, Saracens’ director of rugby, said: “The club has been fully supportive of Chris throughout this process and we are naturally disappointed to lose a player of his calibre for 13 weeks. We put forward what we thought was a strong case for both charges to be dismissed but the decision to suspend Chris is one that we accept. No appeal will be lodged.
“We will continue to support Chris during his enforced time away from playing, and help prepare him for his return to action in December.”
