The United Rugby Championship (URC) has finally spoken out about the allegations against Jan-Hendrik Wessels, confirming the Bulls and Springboks prop's nine-week suspension for allegedly groping Connacht’s Josh Murphy. The incident, which reportedly occurred during the URC Round 4 clash on October 17, has stirred significant controversy and debate within the rugby community.
The URC statement detailed the circumstances and outcome of the disciplinary hearing: “The Citing Commissioner reported Jan-Hendrik Wessels for an act of foul play under Law 9.27, which involves actions contrary to good sportsmanship, including inappropriate physical contact. The disciplinary panel, after reviewing the incident, adjudicated that the behavior met the red card threshold and initially set a 12-week suspension, subsequently reduced to nine weeks considering Wessels' prior clean record and conduct during the hearing.”
Amidst the unfolding drama, the match officials at the time, referee Mike Adamson and TMO Hollie Davidson, found no conclusive evidence during the game. This discrepancy was highlighted by the subsequent red card to Murphy for retaliatory actions against Wessels, adding layers to an already complex situation. South African journalist Brenden Nel commented on the evidence used in the disciplinary process, expressing surprise at the decision: “
“It’s really gobsmacking — what we saw on tv was used to convict him,”
Nel reported.
Rassie Erasmus, the outspoken figure in South African rugby, did not mince words post-verdict, hinting at the broader implications of the decision beyond the playing field: “
“It just got tougher!! We now have to beat them on the field and in the boardrooms. Hamba man. Tsek. Loop Kak.”
This controversy shadows another disciplinary case involving Springbok winger Makazole Mapimpi, who received a five-week suspension for a dangerous tackle, missing key international fixtures. As for Wessels, the repercussions of his suspension are significant, sidelining him for pivotal matches including the Autumn Nations Series and crucial URC and Champions Cup fixtures.
Wessels’ absence will be felt during these games: - Glasgow Warriors vs Vodacom Bulls, October 24, 2025 - BKT URC South Africa vs Japan, November 1, 2025 - France vs South Africa, November 8, 2025 - Italy vs South Africa, November 15, 2025 - Ireland vs South Africa, November 22, 2025 - Vodacom Bulls vs Lions, November 29, 2025 - Vodacom Bulls vs Bordeaux Begles, December 6, 2025 - Northampton Saints vs Vodacom Bulls, December 14, 2025 - Hollywoodbets Sharks vs Vodacom Bulls, December 20, 2025
As the rugby world watches, the potential appeal from Wessels and the Bulls could yet add another chapter to this contentious saga.
2,193 posts
The United Rugby Championship (URC) has finally spoken out about the allegations against Jan-Hendrik Wessels, confirming the Bulls and Springboks prop's nine-week suspension for allegedly groping Connacht’s Josh Murphy. The incident, which reportedly occurred during the URC Round 4 clash on October 17, has stirred significant controversy and debate within the rugby community.
The URC statement detailed the circumstances and outcome of the disciplinary hearing: “The Citing Commissioner reported Jan-Hendrik Wessels for an act of foul play under Law 9.27, which involves actions contrary to good sportsmanship, including inappropriate physical contact. The disciplinary panel, after reviewing the incident, adjudicated that the behavior met the red card threshold and initially set a 12-week suspension, subsequently reduced to nine weeks considering Wessels' prior clean record and conduct during the hearing.”
Amidst the unfolding drama, the match officials at the time, referee Mike Adamson and TMO Hollie Davidson, found no conclusive evidence during the game. This discrepancy was highlighted by the subsequent red card to Murphy for retaliatory actions against Wessels, adding layers to an already complex situation. South African journalist Brenden Nel commented on the evidence used in the disciplinary process, expressing surprise at the decision: “
“It’s really gobsmacking — what we saw on tv was used to convict him,”
Nel reported.Rassie Erasmus, the outspoken figure in South African rugby, did not mince words post-verdict, hinting at the broader implications of the decision beyond the playing field: “
“It just got tougher!! We now have to beat them on the field and in the boardrooms. Hamba man. Tsek. Loop Kak.”
This controversy shadows another disciplinary case involving Springbok winger Makazole Mapimpi, who received a five-week suspension for a dangerous tackle, missing key international fixtures. As for Wessels, the repercussions of his suspension are significant, sidelining him for pivotal matches including the Autumn Nations Series and crucial URC and Champions Cup fixtures.
Wessels’ absence will be felt during these games: - Glasgow Warriors vs Vodacom Bulls, October 24, 2025 - BKT URC South Africa vs Japan, November 1, 2025 - France vs South Africa, November 8, 2025 - Italy vs South Africa, November 15, 2025 - Ireland vs South Africa, November 22, 2025 - Vodacom Bulls vs Lions, November 29, 2025 - Vodacom Bulls vs Bordeaux Begles, December 6, 2025 - Northampton Saints vs Vodacom Bulls, December 14, 2025 - Hollywoodbets Sharks vs Vodacom Bulls, December 20, 2025
As the rugby world watches, the potential appeal from Wessels and the Bulls could yet add another chapter to this contentious saga.