Dylan Hartley all-clear for Six Nations after mid-range ban

He will be available to lead England when they open their Six Nations defence against France.

Dylan Hartley will be available for England's entire RBS 6 Nations campaign after being given a six-week ban for striking Sean O'Brien.

Hartley appeared before an independent disciplinary hearing in London to be sanctioned for the third red card of his career, received in Northampton's Champions Cup defeat by Leinster on Friday.