The Sharks hooker Bismarck du Plessis has been suspended for four weeks after kicking an opponent during his team's narrow Super Rugby win over the Chiefs in Durban.
Bismarck du Plessis of the Sharks. Photo: Photosport
Du Plessis was sent off after just 18 minutes for kicking Chiefs forward Michael Leitch in the face, in the Sharks' 12-11 win, a match where three players were dismissed.
Du Plessis, who is likely to be part of the Springbok's World Cup squad, pleaded guilty before a SANZAR disciplinary hearing and is suspended from all forms of the game up to an including 18 April.
Du Plessis's opposite number Hika Elliot was also shown a red card and has been given a one-week ban for an illegal shoulder charge at a ruck.
The Sharks hooker lashed out with his boot while Elliot rammed his shoulder into the back of prop Tendai Mtawarira's head to be sent off.
Sharks centre Frans Steyn, who made a dangerous tip tackle on Chiefs first five eighth Aaron Cruden, later faced a disciplinary hearing after his early dismissal, but was issued no further sanction - which SANZAR is now appealing.
Steyn was shown red after upending All Black Cruden and driving him head-first into the turf.