Springbok Forward Wessels Given Nine-Game Ban for Inappropriate Contact

Springbok front-rower Wessels faces a suspension of nine matches for making contact with Josh Murphy's genitals during the Bulls' United Rugby Championship win over the Irish province.

The altercation occurred in the 18th minute of the Bulls' 28-27 win against Connacht on Friday, with Connacht forward Josh 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 television match official, who concluded insufficient clear footage.

The Bulls player remained on the pitch until he was replaced in the second half of the match.

While the URC confirmed that Murphy's temporary sending-off was withdrawn by a disciplinary panel, Wessels was deemed to have violated law 9.27, which specifies:

"Any athlete should not do anything that is against the spirit of good sportsmanship. This includes grabbing, pulling or compressing the private areas."

Disciplinary officials determined that the incident met the level for dismissal and warranted a three-month ban, the minimum ban under World Rugby regulations for such an violation.

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

The forward and the Pretoria-based team are entitled to appeal, but as it stands, the ban will prevent the 24-year-old out of the South African national team's autumn Tests against the Brave Blossoms, Les Bleus, Italy and Ireland.

He will additionally be absent for the his club's league matches against Warriors, the Lions and the Sharks, as well as Investec Champions Cup fixtures with Bègles and Saints.

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

Murphy, in contrast, is eligible to face Munster in this weekend's domestic clash after being cleared.