Danny Cipriani banned for three weeks after red card high-tackle

Cipriani can no longer be called up for England's autumn internationals against South Africa and New Zealand

There were initial fears the player may be suspended for five weeks (Getty)

Danny Cipriani has been banned for three weeks following an independent Disciplinary Hearing in Paris after the Gloucester fly-half received a red card for a high-tackle last Saturday.

There were initial fears Cipriani may be suspended for five weeks after his shoulder connected with Rory Scannell’s head on the 29th minute during Gloucester’s 36-22 defeat to Gloucester at Thomond Park.

However, the six-week suspension suggested by the Committee was reduced by 50% due to the player's "clear disciplinary record", "absence of aggravating factors" and "timely expression of remorse".

The ban means Cipriani is ruled out of England’s autumn international fixtures against South Africa and New Zealand, however, he would be available to face Japan and Australia if Eddie Jones were to call him up.

Cipriani was left out of England's squad by Jones, despite winning the Premiership's Player of the Month award in September, and his prospects of securing a place in England's 2019 World Cup squad now seem far-fetched.