Friday Afternoon Round Up

Plisson given three-game suspension

Stade Français fly-half Jules Plisson has been given a three-game suspension after he was found guilty of violent conduct against Castres.

The 25-year-old France international was shown a red card during the game on September 10 for shoulder charging opposing wing David Smith.

He is set to return for the October 8 clash with Racing 92.

Saracens won't appeal Ashton ban

Saracens have announced they will not appeal against Chris Ashton's 13-week ban for biting

The Saracens player was cited for allegedly biting Alex Waller of Northampton Saints on two separate occasions during the club's Premiership match last weekend.

Director or rugby Mark McCall said: “The club has been fully supportive of Chris throughout this process and we are naturally disappointed to lose a player of his calibre for 13 weeks. We put forward what we thought was a strong case for both charges to be dismissed but the decision to suspend Chris is one that we accept. No appeal will be lodged.

"We will continue to support Chris during his enforced time away from playing, and help prepare him for his return to action in December.”

Wilson joins Newcastle Falcons

Bath Rugby can confirm that David Wilson has joined Newcastle Falcons with immediate effect.

Having received a request from Wilson to return to his home-town of Newcastle, Bath have agreed to release him from his contract.

Mike Ford to be appointed first-team coach at Toulon

Mike Ford to be appointed the first-team coach at Toulon after being dismissed at Bath.

According to reports, he will start work for the French giants on Monday, four months after the dismissal by Bath, following a disappointing season which saw them finish ninth in the Premiership.

The 50-year-old is understood to have met Toulon owner Mourad Boudjellal and will take up a leading first-team role with responsibility for attack, defence and the team’s overall game-plan.