CITING SEASON HAS STARTED

Is it me, or are players suddenly starting to be cited, just in time for 6 Nations squad to be announced? It may not be the case, and we are only starting to notice because they receive more publicity as the tournament approaches, or that there are more high profile players involved.

Unfortunately, for England, the omens do not look good for Chris Ashton, accused of gouging on Saturday whilst playing for Sarries against Ulster. His absence would open the way for Jack Nowell, who is injured at present, but should be fit for Scotland game. Ryan Wilson, the Scottish back row has also been cited, along with fellow Glasgow team mate, Tim Swinson, for testicle grabbing and punching respectively. Swinson was yellow carded for his offence, so is more likely to escape relatively unscathed compared to Wilson, who has only just returned to the game, following a three month ban for an assault in a Glasgow bar. Scotland has cover in the back row with Denton, Cowan, Strauss and Ashe all able to cover blindside flanker. It could be an opportunity for Cotter to recall Barclay!

Other players cited this weekend, include the ex Welsh hooker, T Rhys Thomas for biting and Viktor Kolelishvili, the Georgia back row, for pushing over "our very own" Wayne Barnes, whilst playing for Clermont Auvergne. I have to admit, but I have been gouged, pushed over, bitten and punched on the rugby field (and that was bringing the drinks on), but never had my testicles squeezed. I can imagine it is very painful, and makes you release the ball immediately.

UPDATE 20/01/16: Ashton gets 10 week ban, so misses entire 6 Nations, and Swinson gets one week, so free to play against England. Ryan Wilson found not guilty of grabbing testicles, although the disproportionate coverage in the press regards the allegation didn't help his cause, partly because he has form (for a fast food outlet brawl). He probably feels like Stephen Avery, poor fellah!