Ntamack banned for Italy game despite France efforts

France flyhalf Romain Ntamack will miss this month's Six Nations trip to Italy due to a suspension despite an attempt to make him available, a source in Les Bleus' set-up told AFP on Monday.

Toulouse's Ntamack, 25, was originally banned for three weeks for a high tackle in the tournament-opening win over Wales on 31 January.

The punishment was then reduced by a week after the 38-time international followed World Rugby's tackle safety programme.

Ntamack was sidelined for Saturday's loss to England, ending Les Bleus' Grand Slam hopes.

The French Rugby Federation had then hoped Toulouse's French Top 14 visit to Clermont on Sunday would count, making Ntamack free to play the Azzurri on 23 February.

Six Nations officials have refused the FFR's claim for the club fixture to be taken into account.

Matthieu Jalibert started as Antoine Dupont's half-back partner in the England defeat and could also wear the No 10 shirt in Rome.

Ntamack's return could come against Vannes in the Top 14 on 1 March, a week before France head to Six Nations holders Ireland, who are unbeaten after two rounds of this year's tournament.