Banahan received a two-week suspension for stamping following a Rugby Football Union disciplinary hearing in Bristol on Wednesday night.

Prolific Bath try-scorer Banahan was sent off for stamping on Northampton back Stephen Myler during a Guinness Premiership clash at Franklin's Gardens last Saturday.

Banahan, 22, started all of England's autumn internationals last month against Australia, Argentina and New Zealand.

Bath could now decide to appeal the ban. As things stand, Banahan's next playing appearance will not be until December 27, and the Premiership west-country derby against Gloucester.

Crowds have fallen in the last number of years as the ground underwent redevelopment ahead of the 2011 Rugby World Cup, and chief executive Hamish Riach said prices were partly to blame.

"We know from our research that one of the concerns has been price, and we are doing something about it. We have listened and now we are acting," he said.

"We have also introduced a range of very flexible options for payment, starting weekly. We acknowledge that this has been a tough year for both the New Zealand economy and many New Zealanders, so by introducing these flexible options we want to make it as affordable as possible for Cantabrians to be able to enjoy their two rugby teams."

"Bakkies' operation went according to plan and his foot is currently in a cast," said Bulls doctor Org Strauss.

"These are exactly the type of young English players that the club is built on and I am looking forward to announcing further signings in the near future," said chief executive Mark Evans.

However, 'Quins have suspended scrumhalf Danny Care for Sunday's clash with Sale after the England international was sinbinned against Leeds last weekend. The decision took place after an internal disciplinary hearing.

The Premiership side are suffering an injury crisis with six players currently ruled out, but despite bringing in England hooker Andy Titterell as cover Key says he won't be strengthening again.

"We are not looking to sign anyone really, we have very good strengthen in depth," he said.

"We haven't been hit as hard as some clubs this season and we don't intend for that to happen. We knew at the start of the season it was a balance of bring players in, but also developing our existing squad and also relaying on some of our academy players coming through. We've managed that well so far and you are always going to be tested at points of the season."