Both the Springboks and Bulls appear to have been hit with a massive blow after reports have emerged that utility front rower Jan-Hendrik Wessels has been handed a nine-week suspension for an act of foul play.
Despite an apparent lack of video evidence, it’s suggested that the incident occurred in the 18th minute of Friday night’s URC match between Connacht and the Bulls when opponent Josh Murphy complained to referee Mike Adamson that he had been grabbed in his groin area.
Wessels remained on the field, while Murphy was red-carded for retaliation, but according to Rapport, the Springbok star has reportedly now been handed a hefty suspension despite the fact there was no conclusive footage.
The Bulls are expected to appeal the ruling against Springbok star
The URC have not officially communicated the reported decision, but there has already been severe backlash online.
Wessels had just been named in the Springboks’ touring group for the end-of-year tour, but such a ban could rule him out of action until next year.
*This is a developing story, and more updates will be provided in due course.
