Botha ruling could change the game, Smit says

By Ken Borland

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - The two-week ban on Springboks lock Bakkies Botha could chance 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.

Springboks flanker Schalk Burger received an eight-week ban after the game for eye gouging.

South Africa took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series after winning a brutal encounter in Pretoria 28-25.

Smit said the incident that led to Botha's suspension was part and parcel of every rugby game and the decision could set an unwanted precedent.

"Sanity did not prevail at the appeal and I've had referees phoning me, and support from the Lions management and players that it is very concerning for the future of the game.