Ashton to face RFU hearing over red card

Chris Ashton has received a blow ahead of the new Premiership season with the RFU confirming on Tuesday he'll face an independent disciplinary panel

The RFU have said both Ashton and his Sale Sharks teammate Alexandru Tarus of Sale Sharks will appear before the panel.

In a statemtent, the RFU said: "Ashton was shown a red card by referee Roman Poite in the 46th minute of the pre-season fixture between Castres Olympique and Sale Sharks on Friday 17 August 2018. This was for a tip tackle on Rory Kockott contrary to law 9.18 (A player must not lift an opponent off the ground and drop or drive that player so that their head and/or upper body make contact with the ground).

"Tarus was also shown a red card by referee Roman Poite in the 73rd minute of the same match. This was for dangerous play in a ruck contrary to law 9.20.

"Both hearings will take place in London on Thursday 23 August, Ashton’s at 13:30 with Tarus’ following immediately after. The panel will be chaired by Richard Whittam QC, with Becky Essex and one other panel member to be confirmed. "

Ashton could miss the start of the season if he's punished.