Northampton fined £60,000 over George North’s release

Northampton Saints have been fine £60,000 for releasing star winger George North outside the IRB international window.
Wales faced Australia on November 30 and the Saints allowed North to play despite warning they could run into trouble for doing so.
At a meeting this morning, the Designated Panel found that the club had “breached the Board policy with regard to international player release”.
Northampton Saints admitted the breach and have decided not to appeal against the sanction.
There will be no further comment from Premiership Rugby or Northampton Saints.