Wales number eight Ryan Jones could miss the Six Nations opener against England in Cardiff after being sent off in the Ospreys's 13-9 defeat at Munster.

Jones, 25, faces a ban of up to 12 weeks for rucking on Donncha O'Callaghan's head.

The incident, that happened in the first half, will be dealt with by the Welsh Rugby Union but any suspension is likely to rule Jones out for the Ospreys' crucial return to Munster in the European Cup in just three weeks' time.

Suspension would be a huge blow for Jones who has been hailed as one of Welsh rugby's rising stars since first emerging for the Celtic Warriors last season.

The athletic number eight broke into the Wales team to win his first three caps during the Autumn Series, including a debut against South Africa, and was expected to play a key role in the Six Nations.