South African Player Jan-Hendrik Wessels Given Nine-Game Suspension for Inappropriate Contact

South Africa prop Wessels has been suspended of nine matches for grabbing opponent Josh Murphy's genitals during the Bulls' URC victory over Connacht.

The altercation took place in the 18th minute of the Bulls' 28-27 win in Galway on last Friday, with Connacht forward Josh Murphy being shown a temporary dismissal after responding aggressively by striking the South African on the head.

Following the Connacht player complained to the match official, the situation was reviewed by the TMO, who found insufficient clear footage.

Wessels remained on the pitch until he was substituted in the second half of the game.

Although the United Rugby Championship confirmed that Murphy's temporary sending-off was rescinded by a disciplinary panel, Wessels was found to have violated law 9.27, which states:

"A player must not do anything that is contrary to the spirit of good sportsmanship. Such behavior covers touching, twisting or compressing the private areas."

Disciplinary officials determined that the event met the level for dismissal and justified a 12-week suspension, the minimum suspension under World Rugby regulations for such an violation.

Nonetheless, the player's suspension was shortened by three weeks because of his good conduct prior to and at the hearing and his good record.

Wessels and the Pretoria-based team are entitled to appeal, but as it stands, the suspension will prevent the young player out of the Springboks' fall internationals against the Brave Blossoms, Les Bleus, Italy and Ireland.

Wessels will additionally be absent for the Bulls' league matches against Warriors, the Lions and the Sharks, as well as European cup games with Bègles and Northampton.

Wessels has won 10 caps for South Africa and was included in their Rugby Championship-winning squad over the summer.

The Connacht player, in contrast, is eligible to face Munster in Saturday's inter-provincial derby after being cleared.