Simmons and Thomson given bans
Australia lock Rob Simmons was given an eight-week ban on Wednesday for a 'tip tackle' on French flanker Yannick Nyanga and will miss the rest of the Wallabies' European tour.
New Zealand flanker Adam Thomson was also banned for a week by the International Rugby Board-appointed judicial officer after being cited for stamping on the head of Alasdair Strokosch during the All Blacks' 51-22 win over Scotland last weekend.
Both players have the right to appeal the suspensions.
Simmons will not be eligible to play again until February 25, citing officials said in a statement, just after the start of the Super Rugby season.
"The specific period of suspension recognises the close season inactivity after the current tour when the player is not scheduled to play," the statement said.
Simmons, on as a replacement against France in Paris last Saturday, was cited for the dangerous tackle made on Nyanga during the second half of Australia's 33-6 loss.
Australia play England at Twickenham on Saturday while New Zealand face Italy in Rome.
