Brisbane- Reds scrumhalf Will Genia was given a four-week suspension on Tuesday for a dangerous tackle on Sharks flanker Keegan Daniel in a Super 14 rugby match last weekend.
The suspension means Genia will miss three matches, with the Reds having a bye this weekend.
Genia was cited over an incident in the second half involving a lifting tackle on Daniel. Following a 90-minute hearing on Tuesday, SANZAR judicial officer Paul Tully said clear video footage of the incident showed Genia was guilty of the offence.
"The penalty is consistent with the strong stance the judiciary takes on lifting tackles," Tully said.
Genia scored one try and helped create another in the Reds' upset 25-13 win over the Sharks.
Reds coach Phil Mooney said he was upset with the suspension and the team was considering appealing.
"We're extremely disappointed and we'll consider our options," Mooney said.