British and Irish Lions

Howard was cited following the incident during Northampton's 25-23 Guinness Premiership victory over Newcastle eight days ago.

He appeared before a three-man Rugby Football Union disciplinary panel in London, who imposed a suspension that will sideline him until September 25.

Howard, who had already received a two-week suspension from his club, will miss Premiership appointments with Bath and Gloucester before he is able to play again.

The Waratahs upset the odds by beating Super Rugby leaders the Brumbies 28-22, but the game came at a huge cost to Qantas Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.

Lions skipper Sam Warburton says the lessons he and his Welsh colleagues learnt in Australia last summer will stand them in good stead for their return visit with Britain and Ireland's elite next month.

Tom Youngs has enjoyed a remarkable rise to the top of the British & Irish game but he won't be resting on his laurels ahead of his first Lions adventure.