Springbok Forward Wessels Handed Nine-Game Ban for Inappropriate Contact
Wessels is ruled out for the Springboks' autumn internationals.
South Africa prop Jan-Hendrik Wessels has received a ban of nine matches for touching opponent Josh Murphy's private parts during the Bulls' URC victory over Connacht.
The incident occurred in the 18th minute of the Bulls' 28-27 win in Galway on Friday, with opposing player Murphy receiving a temporary dismissal after striking back by striking Wessels on the head area.
Following the Connacht player reported the incident to the match official, the contact was examined by the TMO, who concluded 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 overturned by a governing body, the Springbok was deemed to have violated law 9.27, which specifies:
"A player must not engage in actions that is contrary to the spirit of good sportsmanship. Such behavior covers touching, pulling or squeezing the genitals."
The panel were satisfied that the contact met the level for dismissal and warranted a three-month ban, the shortest suspension under World Rugby rules for such an violation.
Nonetheless, Wessels' suspension was reduced by 21 days because of his good conduct prior to and at the hearing and his good record.
Wessels 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, Italy and the Irish team.
Wessels will also miss the Bulls' league matches against Glasgow, the Lions and the Cell C Sharks, as well as Investec Champions Cup fixtures with Bordeaux and Northampton.
Wessels has earned ten international appearances for the Springboks and was included in their Rugby Championship-winning team during the recent tournament.
The Connacht player, in contrast, is available to face Munster in Saturday's domestic clash after being cleared.
