Irish scrum-half Richards banned

London Irish scrum-half Peter Richards has been banned for a week after elbowing Sale's Neil Briggs during a Guinness Premiership game last week.

Richards appeared before the RFU disciplinary panel on Monday following his dismissal on Friday.

The RFU suspended the scrum-half until October 12th, meaning he can next play the day after.

London Irish are reported to have launched their own inquiry into the incident.

The Exiles emerged 11-8 victors over Sale last week thanks to a try from Sailosi Tagicakibau just before half time.

Toby Booth's side currently lie second in the Premiership, just one point behind leaders Saracens.