Kafer ban blow for Saracens

Saracens have suffered a setback in their bid for a Zurich Premiership play-off place with coach Rod Kafer today beginning a six-week touchline ban handed out by a Rugby Football Union disciplinary panel.

Kafer was called to the hearing after reports emerged that he had verbally abused referee Steve Leyshon and fourth official Wayne Barnes after the 22-18 defeat by Northampton at Vicarage Road last month.

The former Wallaby centre was incensed by Leyshon's decision to blow for full-time rather than award his side a penalty under the posts and he went into the match officials' changing room to make his feelings known.

Kafer's actions were reported to the RFU whose panel found him guilty of 'conduct prejudicial to the interests of the union or the game', and his ban runs until 21 April. That involves league games with Northampton, Gloucester and Leicester.

Kafer must also pay £250 costs of the hearing.

Meanwhile, Wales captain Colin Charvis is expected to be fit for the Six Nations clash with England on 20 March despite fracturing the bridge of his nose against France on Sunday.