George Kruis available for Six Nations after escaping with 3-week ban for dangerous tackle

England second row George Kruis will be available for the Six Nations opener against Wales after being handed a three-week ban for a dangerous tackle in the Saracens match against Gloucester at Kingsholm.

The 24 year old was found guilty of a tip tackle on David Halaifonua on Friday 9 January but has escaped a lengthy ban after the Rugby Football Union did not deem the challenge to be serious.

An RFU statement read: "Kruis, who was cited for making a dangerous tackle contrary to Law 10.4.e in the 62nd minute of the match between Gloucester Rugby and Saracens on January 9, is banned until February 2. He can play again on February 3. "

Kruis, who is expected to be named in England's Six Nations squad next Wednesday 21 January, will miss the European Champions Cup matches against Munster and Clermont Auvergne as well as the LV=Cup trip to London Welsh.

With Joe Launchbury out of the Six Nations after undergoing neck surgery, Kruis, Courtney Lawes, Dave Attwood and Geoff Parling are expected to make up the four locks named in Stuart Lancaster's squad.

The news is a much-needed boost for Lancaster who, after suffering from a string of withdrawals during the autumn international series, is already without Launchbury and back-row forward Ben Morgan due to injury.