Super Rugby
James handed four-week ban
ESPNscrum Staff
June 16, 2011
James will be available for the Springboks' opening international of the year against Australia on July 23 © Getty Images
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Players/Officials: Keegan Daniel | Butch James
Tournaments/Tours: Rugby World Cup | Super Rugby
Teams: Lions | South Africa

Lions fly-half Butch James has been suspended for four weeks for a high-tackle on the Sharks' Keegan Daniel during their 30-all Super Rugby draw last weekend.

James, who joined the Lions from Premiership side Bath last month, appeared before a SANZAR judicial hearing in Johannesburg on Wednesday after being cited in the wake of the Ellis Park clash. SANZAR judicial officer, Rob Stelzner, found James guilty of contravening Law 10.4 (e) and classified the offence as mid-range before handing down his sanction.

The Lions have a bye in the final round of the Super Rugby season and so James' suspension has been deferred to June 20 running until July 17. The 32-year-old, who helped steer South Africa to the 2007 Rugby World Cup crown, was drafted into the Springboks' World Cup planning squad on his return to the country last month and will be available for their opening Tri-Nations clash against Australia on July 23.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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