Scottish blow as Grimes appeal fails

Scotland lock Stuart Grimes today failed in his attempt to overturn a two-match suspension and will miss Saturday’s second Test against Australia.

Grimes was cited for “trampling” on Australian number eight David Lyons in the closing stages of Scotland’s 35-15 defeat to the Wallabies last Sunday and subsequently suspended from all rugby until August 14.

Scotland’s appeal, believed to be on the severity of the sentence, was today rejected by an International Rugby Board panel.

“It is with regret that we have to inform you that the appeal was dismissed by the IRB. We fully respect their decision and we look ahead,” said team manager Guy Richardson.

“There was no doubt they had difficulty in the whole business of the penalty - ie should it stay or not – but they decided to retain it as it is, a two-week suspension.”