Springbok Forward Jan-Hendrik Wessels Given Nine-Match Ban for Inappropriate Contact

Springbok prop Wessels has been suspended of nine games for touching Josh Murphy's private parts during the Blue Bulls' United Rugby Championship victory over Connacht.

The incident happened in the early stages of the Bulls' 28-27 win against Connacht on last Friday, with opposing player Josh Murphy being shown a 20-minute red card after reacting angrily by hitting the South African on the head.

Following Murphy complained to referee Mike Adamson, the situation was examined by the television match official, who found insufficient clear footage.

Wessels remained on the field until he was substituted in the later stages of the match.

Although the URC confirmed that the Irish player's 20-minute red card was withdrawn by a disciplinary panel, the Springbok was found to have breached the code of conduct, which specifies:

"Any athlete should not engage in actions that is contrary to the principles of fair play. Such behavior covers touching, twisting or squeezing the genitals."

The panel determined that the event met the level for dismissal and warranted a 12-week suspension, the shortest ban under World Rugby rules for such an infringement.

However, the player's suspension was reduced by 21 days because of his cooperative behavior prior to and at the proceedings and his good record.

The forward and the Bulls have the right to appeal, but currently, the ban will prevent the 24-year-old out of the Springboks' fall internationals against the Brave Blossoms, Les Bleus, Italy and the Irish team.

Wessels will additionally be absent for the Bulls' league matches against Warriors, the Emirates Lions and the Cell C Sharks, as well as Investec Champions Cup fixtures with Bègles and Saints.

Wessels has earned ten international appearances for South Africa and was included in their Rugby Championship-winning squad during the recent tournament.

The Connacht player, meanwhile, is eligible to face the Irish rivals in this weekend's inter-provincial derby after being exonerated.