Hines cleared for action

Scotland international Nathan Hines will be available to face Australia in the final autumn Test after appealing against a 20-day suspension.

The Perpignan lock was cited by Stade Francais after allegedly kicking Canadian back-row forward Mike James in the face during a game on November 4. A French disciplinary panel ruled that the 29-year-old was guilty of an act of foul play and suspended him until December 11.

But the player insists his decision to appeal against the ban is based on a need to prove himself not guilty of the charge, saying: "I am appealing this decision not because of any expediency, but because I genuinely believe I am innocent and have been hard done by. I am hopeful my appeal will be successful."

Under French ruling, any suspension will not be served until the full disciplinary process, including appeals, is completed.