France's Pascal Pape considering appealing 10-week ban

France lock Pascal Pape is still considering whether to appeal his 10-week ban for kneeing Jamie Heaslip in the back, according to coach Philippe Saint-Andre.

The incident occurred during the Six Nations meeting between France and Ireland earlier this month, with Pape shown a yellow card at the time by referee Wayne Barnes.

Some felt the offence - which left Heaslip with three fractured vertebrae - merited a red card, although Saint-Andre claimed it had been accidental.

Pape has since apologised to Heaslip, but Saint-Andre says the second row is still thinking about an appeal.

"I find the punishment is very, very severe," the coach said.

"It was his last Six Nations, it is a shame it will finish like that for him and the France team.

"Pascal, and the lawyers from the Federation and Stade Francais will reflect on whether to appeal.

"As a coach one is eager to tell him to appeal but if it is to risk a heavier punishment...that is really for the club to decide as it is Stade Francais who pay his wages."