South African Player Wessels Given Nine-Match Suspension for Genital Grab

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

The incident occurred in the 18th minute of the close contest in Galway on last Friday, with opposing player Josh Murphy being shown a temporary dismissal after reacting angrily by hitting the South African on the head area.

After Murphy complained to referee Mike Adamson, the contact was checked by the TMO, who concluded no conclusive video evidence.

Wessels stayed on the field until he was substituted in the second half of the game.

While the United Rugby Championship announced that Murphy's temporary sending-off was rescinded by a governing body, the Springbok was found to have breached law 9.27, which specifies:

"Any athlete should not engage in actions that is contrary to the principles of fair play. Such behavior covers grabbing, twisting or squeezing the private areas."

Disciplinary officials concluded that the event reached the level for dismissal and warranted a 12-week suspension, the minimum suspension under World Rugby regulations for such an violation.

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

The forward and the Pretoria-based team have the right to appeal, but currently, the suspension will prevent the young player out of the Springboks' autumn Tests against Japan, France, the Azzurri and Ireland.

Wessels will also miss the his club's URC games against Glasgow, the Lions and the Sharks, as well as Investec Champions Cup fixtures with Bordeaux and Saints.

The prop has earned ten international appearances for the Springboks and was part of their Rugby Championship-winning squad during the recent tournament.

The Connacht player, in contrast, is eligible to play against the Irish rivals in Saturday's domestic clash after being cleared.