Owen Farrell banned but set for Six Nations return

Owen Farrell is set to play in England's Six Nations opener against Scotland despite a ban for dangerous tackling.

The England captain was cited after making contact with Jack Clement's head with his shoulder in Friday's Premiership match between Saracens and Gloucester.

Farrell believed the incident did not merit a red card, prompting a disciplinary hearing on Tuesday.

A four-match ban was upheld, however, potentially ruling Farrell out until after Sarries' clash with Leicester Tigers on February 19. England play both Scotland and Italy before that date.

But the final match of the suspension will be removed if Farrell completes the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme, which he has indicated he intends to.

| ???????????? ???????.@owen_faz has received a four match ban after an incident against Gloucester. This will be reduced to a three week ban if the player completes the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme.#YourSaracens

— Saracens Rugby Club (@Saracens) January 11, 2023

An initial six-match ban was reduced after Farrell acknowledged the charge and showed "exemplary" behaviour during the hearing process.

It could not be reduced further at the outset due to a previous five-match suspension in 2020 for a high tackle on Wasps' Charlie Atkinson.