Betsen Banned For Six Weeks

Serge Betsen will miss the first two rounds of the Heineken Cup due to a six-week suspension picked up on November 19.

The France and Biarritz flanker was punished for kicking Matt Dawson in the head during France's 24-7 defeat to England in the World Cup semi-final.

While the disciplinary committee accepted the knock was not deliberate, it was deemed a 'foolish act that needed to be sanctioned.'

As France do not have any international matches over the next six weeks, Betsen's club Biarritz Olympique will pay the penalty.

He will miss three French championship games and two crucial Heineken Cup games. In round one his side head to Ravenhill for a tricky tie against last season's beaten Heineken Cup semi-finalists Leinster Lions and in round two, when the 2002 PARKER PEN SHIELD holders Sale Sharks visit the Parc des Sports Aguilera.

He will be qualified to play rugby again on January 1 2004.