South African Forward Jan-Hendrik Wessels Given Nine-Match Ban for Genital Grab

Springbok front-rower Wessels faces a suspension of nine matches for making contact with opponent Josh Murphy's private parts during the Bulls' URC victory over Connacht.

The altercation took place in the early stages of the close contest in Galway on last Friday, with opposing player Murphy being shown a 20-minute red card after reacting angrily by striking the South African on the head.

After Murphy reported the incident to referee Mike Adamson, the event was checked by the television match official, who determined no definitive proof.

The Bulls player remained on the field until he was substituted in the later stages of the game.

While the URC confirmed that Murphy's 20-minute red card was rescinded by a governing body, the Springbok was found to have breached law 9.27, which states:

"Any athlete should not do anything that is contrary to the principles of fair play. This includes grabbing, pulling or compressing the genitals."

Disciplinary officials determined that the contact met the level for dismissal and warranted a 12-week suspension, the minimum ban under World Rugby rules for such an offence.

Nonetheless, Wessels' ban was shortened by three weeks because of his cooperative behavior during the proceedings and his clean disciplinary history.

Wessels and the Pretoria-based team have the right to challenge the decision, but currently, the suspension will prevent the 24-year-old out of the Springboks' autumn Tests against the Brave Blossoms, France, the Azzurri and the Irish team.

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

The prop has won ten international appearances for South Africa and was included in their tri-nations champion team during the recent tournament.

The Connacht player, meanwhile, is available to face the Irish rivals in this weekend's domestic clash after being cleared.