Melbourne Rebels fullback Reece Hodge has been suspended for Friday's clash with the Fijian Drua.
Hodge received two yellow cards in the second half of their 28-3 defeat to the Western Force, both for deliberate knock-downs.
SANZAAR's Foul Play Review Committee found the 27-year-old's actions to be deliberate and warranted further action.
"The Foul Play Review Committee conducted a detailed review of all the available evidence, including all camera angles, and submissions from the player, including the Player accepting both yellow cards were warranted," they said in a statement.
“With respect to sanction, the Foul Play Review Committee ruled, after considering a number of factors, including the direction provided by World Rugby's Regulation 17 - Appendix 4.
"Owing to the fact both yellow cards were deemed deliberate actions of foul play, it was felt that along with the Player’s existing disciplinary record, that the Player’s actions merited a further sanction of 1 week.” "The player is therefore suspended for 1 week, up to and including Saturday 5 March 2022.”
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The ruling is a major blow for the Rebels, who are already struggling with a significant injury toll.
Wallabies Rob Leota (hamstring), Andrew Kellaway (foot) and Pone Fa'amausili (calf) remain on the sidelines, with Kellaway hopeful of being fit for this week's clash.
They join Josh Kemeny and Trevor Hosea, who are expected to miss the majority of the season.
Meanwhile, Jordan Uelese and Lachie Anderson will be racing the clock to be fit, with Anderson a late withdrawal before Saturday's defeat.
