RFU dismiss Hickey 'charge'

Drew Hickey has been cleared of dangerously charging Adam Balding

Worcester have been buoyed by the news that Drew Hickey will not be suspended for his part in Gloucester skipper Adam Balding's injury.

Balding suffered a heavily fractured cheekbone during the two sides' derby draw, and Gloucester officials cited Hickey for 'dangerous charging'.

A guilty verdict could have resulted in a ban of up to 12 weeks, but the RFU panel have cleared the forward of any wrongdoing.

Hickey was joined by club director John Brain for the hearing, who will be delighted to have his powerful number eight available for the foreseeable future.

The news rounded off a good few days for Worcester, who secured a highly creditable victory at London Irish on Sunday.