Sharks centre Frans Steyn has been suspended for five weeks after a Sanzar appeal was upheld.

Steyn was initially found not guilty of contravening Law 10.4 (j), which provides: Lifting a player from the ground and dropping or driving that player into the ground whilst that player’s feet are still off the ground such that the player’s head and/or upper body come into contact with the ground is dangerous play.

However, a Sanzar appeals committee has unanimously upheld the appeal brought against the decision to rescind the red card he received for the tip-tackle on Aaron Cruden, and have suspended Steyn for four Vodacom Super Rugby matches.

The committee took into consideration the Sharks' bye in round 11, and have suspended Steyn from all forms of the game up to and including 3 May.

This means he will miss the home matches against the Crusaders and Bulls, the trip to Ellis Park to face the Lions, and the Sharks' first tour match against the Highlanders.

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