Wales flanker Martyn Williams will be available for the start of this season's Six Nations Championship after avoiding a lengthy ban.

The Cardiff Blues star was was sent off for butting Ospreys scrum-half Jason Spice during a feisty Magners Celtic League clash last Saturday.

But Welsh Rugby Union disciplinary chiefs have meted out a three-week suspension, which means Williams, who has won more than 60 caps, can play again from mid-January.

Williams must sit out Cardiff's Celtic League games against Llanelli Scarlets and the Borders, plus their Heineken Cup appointment with Leicester at Welford Road on January 13th, but he will be available to face Bourgoin in the same tournament a week later.

Wales, meanwhile, kick off their Six Nations campaign against Ireland in Cardiff on February 4th.

Williams said: "It was the first time I have been shown the red card in 12 seasons of playing rugby at senior level. Consequently, I feel it was out of character and obviously I regret the incident. I would like to apologise to all concerned.

"I was disappointed with my reaction in the match, but I fully accept the findings of the (WRU) disciplinary sub committee."