Rugby star who ‘grabbed and twisted genitals of opponent’ slapped with massive ban

A South African international rugby player has been banned for nine matches after being found guilty of “grabbing, twisting or squeezing the genitals” of an opponent

International rugby star Jan-Hendrik Wessels has been slapped with a nine-match ban after being found guilty of “grabbing, twisting or squeezing the genitals” of an opponent.

The South African front-rower, who has ten caps for the Springboks, will miss the upcoming Autumn internationals due to the ban. The world champions are set to face off against teams such as Ireland, Wales and France.

During the Bulls’ 28-27 win over Connacht, Wessels initially avoided any punishment as referee Mike Adamson couldn’t take action due to inconclusive television replays. Instead, Connacht’s Josh Murphy was shown a 20-minute red card by Adamson for retaliating and striking the South African in the head.

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However, since Wessels’ ban was announced, Murphy’s red card has been rescinded. Wessels was found to have violated law 9.27, which states: “A player must not do anything that is against the spirit of good sportsmanship. This includes grabbing, twisting or squeezing the genitals.”

The panel concluded that the incident warranted a red card and deserved a 12-week suspension – the minimum ban under World Rugby rules for such an offence. Wessels’ suspension was reduced by three weeks due to his “good conduct prior to and at the hearing and good record”.

The incident happened during a ruck when players had bundled in with the Bulls attempting to clear their lines. Murphy unleashed his fury at his opponents and then begged the referee to review the video footage more thoroughly with television match official Hollie Davidson after receiving his marching orders.

“He grabbed me here,” Murphy declared, gesturing to his groin. “Sir, look at it back, he grabbed me here, I wouldn’t have done it otherwise.” Adamson responded: “I understand what you’ve said, I will check that, but listen, what you did is unacceptable..”

Wessels does possess the right to appeal. If successful, he could feature for South Africa during their forthcoming fixtures which kick off on November 1 against Japan at Wembley.

There has been some dispute over the decision to suspend Wessels given the video footage doesn’t clearly support Murphy’s claim. The referee mentioned not having Hawkeye available when he reviewed the replays at the time.

Springboks chief Rassie Erasmus has posted a cryptic message on social media without directly addressing the suspension.

Following the ban announcement, he posted: “It just got tougher!! We now have to beat them on the field, and in the boardrooms. Hamba man. Tsek. Loop Kak.”