South African Forward Jan-Hendrik Wessels Receives Nine-Game Suspension for Inappropriate Contact

Springbok front-rower Jan-Hendrik Wessels faces a suspension of nine matches for touching opponent Josh Murphy's genitals during the Blue Bulls' URC win over the Irish province.

The incident occurred in the 18th minute of the close contest in Galway on last Friday, with Connacht forward Josh Murphy receiving a temporary dismissal after striking back by striking Wessels on the head area.

Following Murphy complained to referee Mike Adamson, the event was reviewed by the television match official, who found no conclusive video evidence.

The Bulls player remained on the field until he was replaced in the later stages of the game.

Although the URC confirmed that the Irish player's temporary sending-off was rescinded by a governing body, the Springbok was deemed to have violated the code of conduct, which states:

"Any athlete must not do anything that is contrary to the principles of fair play. This includes touching, twisting or squeezing the private areas."

The panel were satisfied that the event reached the level for dismissal and justified a three-month ban, the minimum ban under World Rugby rules for such an offence.

However, Wessels' ban was reduced by 21 days because of his good conduct during the proceedings and his clean disciplinary history.

Wessels and the Bulls have the right to challenge the decision, but as it stands, the suspension will prevent the young player out of the South African national team's fall internationals against the Brave Blossoms, France, Italy and Ireland.

He will also miss the Bulls' league matches against Warriors, the Lions and the Sharks, as well as European cup fixtures with Bordeaux and Northampton.

Wessels has earned 10 caps for South Africa and was included in their tri-nations champion squad during the recent tournament.

The Connacht player, meanwhile, is eligible to play against Munster in this weekend's inter-provincial derby after being exonerated.