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

Springbok prop Wessels has been suspended of nine games for grabbing opponent Josh Murphy's genitals during the Bulls' URC win over the Irish province.

The altercation took place in the 18th minute of the Bulls' 28-27 win in Galway on Friday, with opposing player Josh Murphy receiving a temporary dismissal after responding aggressively by striking Wessels on the head.

Following the Connacht player complained to referee Mike Adamson, the event was examined by the TMO, who found insufficient clear footage.

Wessels remained on the field until he was replaced in the later stages of the game.

Although the URC announced that the Irish player's temporary sending-off was withdrawn by a disciplinary panel, Wessels was found to have violated law 9.27, which declares:

"Any athlete must not do anything that is contrary to the spirit of good sportsmanship. This includes grabbing, pulling or compressing the genitals."

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

Nonetheless, the player's ban was shortened by 21 days because of his cooperative behavior prior to and at the proceedings and his good record.

Wessels and the Bulls are entitled to challenge the decision, but as it stands, the ban will prevent the young player out of the Springboks' fall internationals against Japan, France, Italy and Ireland.

Wessels will also miss the his club's URC games against Warriors, the Emirates Lions and the Sharks, as well as Investec Champions Cup games with Bordeaux and Saints.

The prop has earned 10 caps for the Springboks and was included in their Rugby Championship-winning team over the summer.

Murphy, in contrast, is eligible to play against Munster in Saturday's inter-provincial derby after being exonerated.