Pelous handed nine-week ban
France captain Fabien Pelous has been handed a nine-week suspension for elbowing Australia's hooker Brendan Cannon during Saturday's international in Marseille.
France captain Fabien Pelous has been hit with a nine-week ban for elbowing Australia's Brendan Cannon during last Saturday's international in Marseille.
The incident, which took place at the start of the second half, left the Wallabies hooker needing stitches for a facial wound that eventually forced him out of the match.
The lock, who has won 102 caps for his country, was cited by International Rugby Board commissioner Peter Brown after the match, which the home side won 26-16.
The suspension, which lasts until January 10, means Pelous will miss France's international fixtures against Canada, Tonga and South Africa in November.
He will also have to sit out Toulouse's French league action and their Heineken Cup double-header against Scottish side Edinburgh.
However, Pelous will be available to play in next year's RBS Six Nations competition.
The 32-year-old, who attended the disciplinary hearing in London, has 48 hours to appeal the decision, although he admitted it is unlikely he'll fight the length of the suspension.
"I made a mistake and I accept it," Pelous said. "I'll take it like an adult.
"I have to discuss that possibility (appealing) with the president of the club, but I'm not really in favour of it."
He added: "I'm sorry for my team-mates in the France and Toulouse teams."
