Springbok Player Jan-Hendrik Wessels Handed Nine-Match Suspension for Inappropriate Contact

Springbok prop Wessels faces a suspension of nine games for grabbing Josh Murphy's genitals during the Blue Bulls' URC victory over Connacht.

The altercation took place in the early stages of the close contest against Connacht on Friday, with opposing player Murphy being shown a temporary dismissal after responding aggressively by hitting Wessels on the head.

Following Murphy complained to the match official, the situation was reviewed by the TMO, who found no definitive proof.

Wessels stayed on the pitch until he was substituted in the later stages of the game.

Although the URC announced that the Irish player's 20-minute red card was overturned by a governing body, Wessels was deemed to have violated the code of conduct, which declares:

"Any athlete must not do anything that is contrary to the principles of fair play. Such behavior covers touching, pulling or squeezing the genitals."

Disciplinary officials were satisfied that the contact met the level for dismissal and warranted a three-month ban, the shortest suspension under World Rugby regulations for such an infringement.

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

Wessels and the Bulls are entitled to challenge the decision, but currently, 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.

Wessels will also miss the his club's league matches against Warriors, the Emirates Lions and the Sharks, as well as European cup fixtures with Bordeaux and Saints.

The prop has earned 10 caps for South Africa and was included in their Rugby Championship-winning team during the recent tournament.

Murphy, in contrast, is available to play against the Irish rivals in this weekend's domestic clash after being exonerated.