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

South Africa front-rower Jan-Hendrik Wessels has been suspended of nine matches for touching opponent Josh Murphy's genitals during the Bulls' United Rugby Championship victory over the Irish province.

The altercation occurred in the 18th minute of the narrow victory in Galway on Friday, with opposing player Josh Murphy receiving a 20-minute red card after responding aggressively by striking the South African on the head.

Following Murphy reported the incident to referee Mike Adamson, the event was examined by the TMO, who determined no conclusive video evidence.

The Bulls player stayed on the pitch until he was substituted in the second half of the match.

Although the URC announced that the Irish player's temporary sending-off was rescinded by a disciplinary panel, the Springbok was found to have violated law 9.27, which declares:

"A player must not do anything that is contrary to the principles of fair play. Such behavior covers touching, twisting or squeezing the genitals."

The panel determined that the event reached the level for dismissal and justified a three-month ban, the minimum suspension under World Rugby rules for such an infringement.

Nonetheless, Wessels' suspension was shortened by 21 days because of his cooperative behavior during the hearing and his good record.

The forward and the Bulls have the right to challenge the decision, but as it stands, the suspension will rule the 24-year-old out of the Springboks' autumn Tests against the Brave Blossoms, France, Italy and the Irish team.

He will also miss the Bulls' league matches against Warriors, the Emirates Lions and the Sharks, as well as Investec Champions Cup fixtures with Bègles and Saints.

Wessels has won ten international appearances for South Africa and was part of their Rugby Championship-winning squad during the recent tournament.

The Connacht player, meanwhile, is eligible to face Munster in Saturday's domestic clash after being exonerated.