Williams was sent off by the referee, Eoghan Cross during the first half for a dangerous tackle on Clermont centre Julien Heriteau.
Tournament organiser European Professional Club Rugby said that an independent disciplinary committee heard evidence from Williams, who accepted the red card decision.
Taking into account the injuries suffered by Hériteau, the committee then determined
that the offending was at the top end of World Rugby’s sanctions and 12 weeks was
selected as the appropriate entry point.
Due to his timely acceptance of the charge and his apology to Hériteau, the committee
decided to reduce the sanction by the maximum of 50% before imposing a six-week
suspension.
Williams, who has won seven caps for his country and featured in last year’s World Cup, was not selected in Wales’ squad for the forthcoming Six Nations with expectations that forthcoming punishment would rule him out of the tournament.
“The committee upheld the red card decision, finding that in carrying out the tackle in a dangerous and reckless manner, Williams had made contact with Hériteau’s head,” said committee of the EPCR.
“Taking into account the injuries suffered by Hériteau, the committee then determined that the offending was at the top end of World Rugby’s sanctions and 12 weeks was selected as the appropriate entry point.
“Due to his timely acceptance of the charge and his apology to Hériteau, the committee decided to reduce the sanction by the maximum of 50 per cent before imposing a six-week suspension.”
The date when Williams can return to play will be determined once the committee has
received full details of his future playing schedule. Both the player and EPCR will have the right to appeal the decision.
[Lead image: Scarlets Rugby]
