Johnson handed reprieve

Martin Johnson breathed a sigh of relief last night after being handed the chance to end his amazing career in style – rather than on the sidelines.

The Leicester captain faced a possible season-ending suspension after receiving three yellow cards this campaign for striking an opponent.

But Johnson’s protest against the caution handed out by top English referee Chris White following an incident with Saracens forward Ben Russell during a Zurich Premiership defeat eight days ago, was upheld at a Rugby Football Union hearing in Coventry.

“I am very pleased with the result, and I am looking forward to the rest of the season,” said England’s World Cup-winning skipper.

Johnson is now free to continue playing in his farewell season before retirement, starting with next Saturday’s top-of-the-table Premiership clash against Wasps at Welford Road.

He is also available for next month’s title play-offs, which could culminate in Leicester facing Wasps at Twickenham on May 14.