The Auckland fullback Paul Williams has been suspended for a week after being cited for a late, high tackle on Canterbury's Dan Carter at Eden Park.
Williams moved into Carter's path late in the second half and made contact with him just above shoulder level without using his arms.
The New Zealand Rugby Union judicial officer Bruce Squire QC said there was a clear risk of contact with the head and the potential for serious injury.
Williams said he was trying to avoid contact with another Auckland player trying to tackle Carter but Squire said his action sufficiently reckless to warrant suspension.
Auckland's Winston Stanley was also cited for charging Canterbury's Ryan Crotty without the ball but a video review of the match on Saturday night showed his actions were not intentional.
