Smit hit with six-week suspension

South Africa captain John Smit has been suspended for six weeks by the IRB.

South Africa captain John Smit has been suspended for six weeks by the IRB.

Smit was found guilty of striking France's Jerome Thion with his arm during the Springboks' 26-20 defeat, and Judicial Officer Denis Wheelahan decided on a six-week punishment.

The suspension starts on January 14, meaning the South African hooker will miss the opening month of the new season in his homeland.

Smit has revealed that he will not appeal, confirming on www.sarugby.net: "I received a fair hearing and want to wish Jerome a speedy recovery."

Thion suffered a fractured larynx during the incident, and his club side Biarritz have confirmed that the player will leave hospital on Wednesday.

The second row forward is also likely to be out of action for six weeks with the injury.