There was a strong possibility of it happening… Gareth Thomas – the former Wales and Lions captain no less! – has possibly ended his international career in shame. I mentioned previously about Trevor Brennan having no excuse for his actions during the Ulster game – well his partner in crime has paid a much higher price.

He will miss out on the first 3 matches of the Six Nations , with speculation rife that he will find it difficult to get back into the squad late in the competition. Should he not be able to do so, then he may also be at risk of missing a spot in the Wales’ World Cup squad.

From the BBC:

The Toulouse back, 32, was found guilty of “aggressively attempting to enter one of the seating areas” during last month’s Heineken Cup win over Ulster.

He was also found guilty by an ERC disciplinary panel of making an offensive hand gesture towards fans.

“Whilst we think there are grounds for challenging the sentence, neither Gareth nor the WRU consider it would be in his best interests, or the best interests of the game, for an appeal to be lodged.”

Thomas himself added: “I would like to thank my team-mates, coaches and the WRU for the support I have been given during this very difficult time. “Now I just want to resume training and support the Wales team to a victory over Ireland in Cardiff on Sunday.

“I will be with them heart and soul just like every other Welsh fan. I will be standing shoulder to shoulder with the team throughout the Six Nations.”

An ERC statement said the starting point for the offence was a 12-week ban, but the sentence was reduced on the basis of Thomas’ remorse.