Castres forward Ismaelia Lassissi's 12-month ban from all competitions was completely rescinded following an appeal hearing in Dublin today.
Ivory Coast international flanker Lassissi was cited by Munster for biting prop Peter Clohessy during the European Cup Pool match between the clubs in France on January 12th, which Castres won 21-13.
Five days later, the disciplinary committee of tournament organisers European Rugby Cup (ERC) handed out a year-long ban after Castres had withdrawn their counter-protest against Clohessy for making an alleged racist remark to Lassissi.
But today a statement from ERC said: "The ERC appeals committee, chairman Robert Horner (England), Bob Taylor (England) and John Owen (Wales) upheld the appeal following formal evidence at the hearing. Mr Lassissi can resume playing with imediate effect".
The 32-year-old back-row forward has been included in Castres's 22 for their all-French European Cup quarter-final at home to Montferrand on Saturday.
Castres sporting director Jacques Cauquil said: "This is great news for the club and also for the man who was cleared of accusations which were without foundation.
"I was told by ERC of the decision late on Thursday night. We were all extremely confident. The good faith of our player, who always said he was innocent, has been recognised," he said.
Lassissi's suspension was one of the most severe handed out to a player in the European Cup.
AFP