The Bulls will explore the possibility of a new trial when appealing Jan-Hendrik Wessels’ nine-week ban.
According to News24, the Springbok front-rower is set to have his appeal heard on Wednesday after being suspended for allegedly grabbing Connacht flanker Josh Murphy’s testicles during a URC match in Galway.
REVEALED: Images that convicted Jan-Hendrik
Wessels was not sanctioned during the game, with officials deeming the video evidence inconclusive. Instead, Murphy received a 20-minute red card for striking Wessels in retaliation, which was later rescinded by the same URC disciplinary panel that found Wessels guilty.
The panel’s handling of the case – finding Wessels guilty without new evidence or an admission of guilt – has been widely criticised.
The Bulls also received the full written verdict later than expected, forcing Wessels to miss the final match of their tour against Glasgow.
The Bulls have since lodged an appeal, and News24 reports they want a fresh hearing if the appeal committee accepts their submissions.
Should the appeal fail, Wessels could lose the three-match reduction he received for good conduct, increasing his suspension from nine to 12 matches.
The 23-year-old has remained in England with the Springboks ahead of their clash with Japan at Wembley.
Photo: Anton Geyser/Gallo Images
The post Bulls want new Wessels trial appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.