Jan-Hendrik Wessels was banned for nine weeks despite the URC disciplinary committee acknowledging that there was no “irrefutable visual confirmation” of foul play.
Planet Rugby, which obtained the full judgement, reports that the decision was based primarily on the testimony of Connacht flanker Josh Murphy and the citing commissioner.
Referee Mike Adamson and his TMO team did not sanction the Bulls hooker during the match in Galway due to a lack of conclusive video evidence.
Murphy told the citing commissioner: “I felt the player grab my testicles and that’s when I reacted immediately. That’s why I reacted, because of how he grabbed and squeezed my testicles – I wouldn’t have reacted otherwise.”
The citing commissioner’s report stated: “The movement of Wessels’ left arm, away from his body and toward Murphy’s groin, is not only unnatural but also unnecessary in the context of ruck engagement. His backward glance further suggests awareness.”
Murphy’s “immediate and unmistakable” reaction, his consistent testimony, and the commissioner’s observation were deemed sufficient to meet the red -ard threshold.
Three still images were included in the judgement to support the ruling:
– One showing the positioning of Wessels’ arm.
– A second capturing Murphy’s reaction and hip movement away.
– A third showing Murphy turning toward Wessels and striking him in response.
The committee described Murphy’s testimony as “credible”, despite acknowledging he also had a personal interest as he faced a disciplinary hearing for his own red card.
“The committee’s view is that the video footage supports the evidence put forward by the citing commissioner and C6 [Murphy], rather than the player [Wessels],” the judgement noted.
The Bulls have confirmed they will appeal the suspension, which currently rules Wessels out of the Springboks’ entire November tour and the start of the Bulls’ Champions Cup campaign.
To overturn the decision, they must prove that he did not commit the act of foul play.
Josh Murphy red card for Connacht against Blue Bulls.
Was there a bit of ball grabbing before? #URC pic.twitter.com/BasUkyolXD
— Darren (@SaffasRugby) October 20, 2025
