Johnson could be free to play France
February 21, 2002

A technical loophole in the Rugby Football Union's disciplinary procedure could see Martin Johnson appear against France in the Six Nations, whatever the outcome of his hearing on Thursday.

The Tigers skipper faces a three-man disciplinary panel in Bristol after being cited for punching Robbie Russell during a Premiership match against Saracens a fortnight ago.

The panel could ban him for three matches, including the Six Nations match in Paris on 2 March. But, according to RFU rules, the delay caused by a lodged appeal against the decision of the panel would free Johnson up to play against France because the RFU will not have time to organise a hearing.

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