Controversy at URC as Bulls appeal Wessel’s 9-game ban for 'genital grab'

Springbok and Bulls player Jan-Hendrik Wessels was hit with a nine-game ban for allegedly grabbing Connacht flanker Josh Murphy’s genitals during a United Rugby Championship (URC) match in Galway.

He was not sanctioned during the game as officials deemed the video evidence to be inconclusive. Instead, Murphy was given a red card for striking Wessels in retaliation.

The embellishment of the evidence is a concern, says freelance rugby analyst, Jan de Koning.

"These bad incidents that are so slanted are far and few between, but you just need one of them to play into that scenario or narrative that these guys are biased and they are out to get them," he says.

The Bulls have appealed for a new hearing for Wessels, who is currently in England with the Springboks.

If the appeal fails, Wessels could lose the three-match reduction he received for good conduct, upping his suspension from nine to 12 games.

"If he is there [in London], it is definitely a case of being hopeful. While he is there, he can train with the Boks and the appeal is ongoing," says De Koning.

To listen to De Koning in conversation with CapeTalk’s John Maytham, use the audio player below: