The Lions first-five Butch James has been banned for four weeks after a judicial hearing into dangerous play during a Super Rugby match last weekend.
James grabbed Sharks flanker Keegan Daniel around the neck as he attempted to counter-attack 60 minutes into the match at Ellis Park.
The Springbok 2011 Rugby World Cup contender was 'sin binned' after an incident which drew gasps from the 30,000 crowd at a South African showdown that ended in a 30-all draw.
It was the Lions' final match of the season and, with the ban ending on July 17th, James will be available for a Tri-Nations fixture against Australia in Sydney six days later.
While unlikely to unseat first-choice first five Morne Steyn, James will be a candidate for inclusion on the bench.
