Higginbotham has been cited for two offences in Australia's 18-all draw with New Zealand in Brisbane on Saturday.
His actions left the Kiwi coach, Steve Hansen, seething with anger.
While the All Blacks missed the chance for a record-equalling 17th straight Test win, Hansen's frustrations bubbled over after Higginbotham struck McCaw with the knee in the head and when they became involved in a scuffle, he also head-butted the Kiwi skipper.
The incident revived memories of Quade Cooper's knee to McCaw's head at the same ground 14 months ago when the Wallabies playmaker escaped the next day when exonerated at a judicial hearing.
"I saw the head-butt - it's another cheap shot," Hansen said.
"He seems to get them every week but everyone seems to miss them."
McCaw admitted he was annoyed at the time and expected the judicial process to take its course against Higginbotham.
"It's on TV so it will get dealt with," he said.
"It does get frustrating at times and annoying but there's not much I can do about it."
Higginbotham has been cited under Law 10.4.a: Punching or Striking.
Springboks prop Dean Greyling copped a two-week ban, which effectively was a one-Test suspension, after he was found guilty of striking McCaw last month.
Greyling's elbow appeared more blatant and heavier contact was made but sentences have been inconsistent.
Rugby365
