Scotland's Russell banned for Italy game

Scotland fly-half Finn Russell will miss the Six Nations game against Italy next week after tournament organisers announced on Wednesday he had been given a two-week suspension.
The 22-year-old Glasgow player was given a three-week ban, reduced to two weeks due to his good previous record, for a dangerous tackle on Dan Biggar during Scotland's 26-23 loss to Wales in Edinburgh last Sunday.
"The disciplinary committee decided that the offence was reckless rather than deliberate," read a Six Nations statement after a disciplinary panel in London.
"The committee considered it at the lower end of World Rugby's scale of seriousness, carrying a three-week suspension.
"It noted the absence of aggravating factors and the existence of certain mitigating factors, including the player's clear disciplinary record, in applying a one-week reduction from the entry point."
The Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) subsequently announced in a statement that it was "disappointed" by the ruling and will launch an appeal once it has received the panel's written verdict.
Russell sent Biggar sprawling as the Welshman leapt for a high ball during the first half of the game at Murrayfield, but the Ospreys number 10 avoided serious injury and was able to play on.
New Zealand referee Glen Jackson sent Russell to the sin bin, but a Six Nations disciplinary committee found that the incident had been worthy of a red card.
Scotland, who lost their first two games, host Italy on February 28 before tackling England and Ireland in their final two matches.
Source: AFP