Stamped out: Nathan Hines handed six-week ban

The Clermont lock was cited for stamping in the first half of the 49-16 win over Llanelli, but he will return in time for Leinster’s visit to France.

CLERMONT AUVERGNE LOCK Nathan Hines has received a six-week ban today for stamping on an opponent during last week’s Heineken Cup win.

Hines, 35, was cited for the stamp on Welsh winger Morgan Stoddart (himself, subsequently red carded) in the first half of the French side’s 49-16 win over Llanelli Scarlets at the Stade Marcel Michelin.

Hines was sanctioned under law 10.4 (b) and a statement from the ERC said the the offence was in the mid-range of seriousness and would incur a five-week ban. However, Hines’ previous record was taken into account and a further one week was tagged on

Clermont will not appeal the ban leaving Hines sidelined until November 26, meaning he will be available in plenty of time for the potentially decisive back-to-back pool meetings against his former club Leinster the first of which is on December 9.

The Australian Scottish international will be replaced in the squad by Loic Jacquet for Saturday’s trip to face Exeter Chiefs.

- Additional reporting by Sean Farrell