UPDATE 1-Rugby-Botha ruling could change the game, Smit says

(Refiles fixing typo in intro)

* Springboks captain says ruling could set precedent

* Lions say they had no problem with Botha

(Adds Gatland quotes, recasts)

By Ken Borland

JOHANNESBURG, July 3 (Reuters) - The two-week ban on Springboks lock Bakkies Botha could change the nature of rugby, team captain John Smit said on Friday.

"We are deeply saddened and angered more than anything else by the outcome of the Bakkies Botha appeal," Smit told a news conference.

"I hope and pray it's just a case of Bakkies being victimised. If it's not, then it could change this wonderful game we play."

Botha was suspended for a dangerous charge on British and Irish Lions prop Adam Jones in the second test that left the Welshman with a dislocated shoulder. Botha lost his appeal against the ban and will miss the final test on Saturday.