Springbok Forward Jan-Hendrik Wessels Given Nine-Game Suspension for Inappropriate Contact

Springbok front-rower Wessels faces a suspension of nine games for making contact with opponent Josh Murphy's private parts during the Bulls' URC win over Connacht.

The incident happened in the early stages of the close contest in Galway on last Friday, with opposing player Murphy receiving a 20-minute red card after striking back by striking the South African on the head.

Following the Connacht player complained to referee Mike Adamson, the contact was reviewed by the TMO, who determined no conclusive video evidence.

The Bulls player remained on the field until he was replaced in the second half of the match.

While the URC confirmed that Murphy's 20-minute red card was withdrawn by a governing body, the Springbok was found to have violated law 9.27, which specifies:

"Any athlete must not engage in actions that is contrary to the spirit of good sportsmanship. Such behavior covers grabbing, twisting or squeezing the genitals."

Disciplinary officials concluded that the incident reached the level for dismissal and justified a 12-week suspension, the minimum ban under international rugby regulations for such an violation.

However, Wessels' ban was shortened by 21 days because of his good conduct during the proceedings and his good record.

The forward and the Pretoria-based team have the right to challenge the decision, but as it stands, the suspension will prevent the 24-year-old out of the South African national team's fall internationals against the Brave Blossoms, France, the Azzurri and Ireland.

Wessels will also miss the Bulls' URC games against Warriors, the Emirates Lions and the Cell C Sharks, as well as Investec Champions Cup fixtures with Bordeaux and Northampton.

Wessels has won 10 caps for South Africa and was part of their tri-nations champion team during the recent tournament.

Murphy, in contrast, is available to play against the Irish rivals in Saturday's domestic clash after being cleared.