England prop Joe Marler has received a 10-week ban for grabbing Alun Wyn Jones' genitals during Sunday's (NZ time) Six Nations win over Wales.
Marler appeared before a disciplinary hearing in Dublin on Friday (NZ time), charged with acting against the spirit of good sportsmanship by "grabbing, twisting or squeezing the genitals" of an opponent.
The 29-year-old admitted he'd committed an act of foul play, but did not accept he had grabbed, twisted or squeezed Jones' genitals.
The disciplinary committee, comprising David Hurley (Ireland), Sarah Smith (Scotland) and Stefan Terblanche (South Africa), found the act of foul play warranted a low-end 12-week suspension.
His ban was then reduced by three weeks for mitigating factors, including good character and remorse, but increased by one week for his recent disciplinary record.
Marler has the right to appeal the decision, but isn't allowed to play rugby until June 9.
Meanwhile, centre Manu Tuilagi was banned for four weeks for his red-card dangerous tackle on Welsh wing George North in the game, which England won 33-30.
Lock Courtney Lawes, who was also cited for a dangerous tackle, escaped punishment.
