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

Springbok prop Jan-Hendrik Wessels has been suspended of nine matches for grabbing opponent Josh Murphy's genitals during the Blue Bulls' United Rugby Championship win over Connacht.

The altercation occurred in the 18th minute of the close contest against Connacht on Friday, with opposing player Josh Murphy being shown a 20-minute red card after reacting angrily by hitting Wessels on the head.

After the Connacht player complained to the match official, the situation was checked by the TMO, who determined insufficient clear footage.

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

While the United Rugby Championship announced that the Irish player's 20-minute red card was rescinded by a governing body, the Springbok was deemed to have violated the code of conduct, which declares:

"A player must not engage in actions that is contrary to the spirit of good sportsmanship. Such behavior covers grabbing, pulling or squeezing the genitals."

Disciplinary officials determined that the incident reached the level for dismissal and warranted a three-month ban, the minimum suspension under World Rugby rules for such an infringement.

Nonetheless, Wessels' ban was shortened by 21 days because of his good conduct during the hearing and his good record.

Wessels and the Pretoria-based team have the right to appeal, but currently, the suspension will prevent the young player out of the South African national team's autumn Tests against the Brave Blossoms, France, the Azzurri and the Irish team.

He will also miss the his club's URC games against Warriors, the 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 part of their tri-nations champion squad during the recent tournament.

Murphy, in contrast, is eligible to play against the Irish rivals in Saturday's inter-provincial derby after being cleared.