England captain Dylan Hartley to find out Six Nations fate on Wednesday after red card
It was the third red card of his career
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Dylan Hartley will learn on Wednesday if he will be available to lead England into the Six Nations after being sent off for the third time in his career.
Hartley will appear before an independent hearing to discover the length of the ban imposed for his stiff-arm tackle on Sean O'Brien in Northampton's Champions Cup defeat by Leinster on Friday night.
O'Brien failed a head injury assessment after being struck from behind by the blow from England's captain, who had only been on the pitch for six minutes as a second-half replacement.
Details of the charge Hartley faces have yet to be issued - the offence could fall under striking or dangerous tackle - but given his atrocious disciplinary record, a substantial ban is certain.
A suspension of eight weeks and above would rule him out of the Six Nations opener against France at Twickenham on February 4, resulting in the likely promotion of Owen Farrell to the captaincy.
The tackle has been widely condemned and has left England head coach Eddie Jones facing awkward questions having appointed Hartley as skipper despite a rap sheet that includes biting, gouging, butting and swearing at a referee.
In his defence, Hartley has led the national team with distinction throughout Jones' reign and has been at the helm for a flawless first year comprising of 13 successive victories.
PA.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments