Springbok Forward Jan-Hendrik Wessels Given Nine-Game Ban for Inappropriate Contact

South Africa front-rower Wessels has received a ban of nine games for making contact with Josh Murphy's private parts during the Bulls' URC victory over the Irish province.

The incident took place in the 18th minute of the close contest in Galway on Friday, with Connacht forward Murphy receiving a 20-minute red card after responding aggressively by striking Wessels on the head.

Following the Connacht player complained to the match official, the contact was reviewed by the TMO, who concluded insufficient clear footage.

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

While the URC confirmed that Murphy's temporary sending-off was withdrawn by a governing body, the Springbok was found to have violated the code of conduct, which states:

"Any athlete must not engage in actions that is contrary to the principles of fair play. This includes grabbing, twisting or squeezing the genitals."

Disciplinary officials determined that the event met the red card threshold and warranted a three-month ban, the shortest ban under World Rugby regulations for such an violation.

However, the player's suspension was reduced by three weeks because of his good conduct during the proceedings and his good record.

Wessels and the Bulls have the right to challenge the decision, but currently, the suspension will rule the 24-year-old out of the Springboks' fall internationals against Japan, France, the Azzurri and Ireland.

Wessels will also miss the Bulls' league matches against Glasgow, the Emirates Lions and the Sharks, as well as Investec Champions Cup games with Bègles and Saints.

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

The Connacht player, meanwhile, is eligible to play against Munster in this weekend's domestic clash after being exonerated.