Wessels’ ban to test Bulls’ character, admits coach

SPRINGBOK prop Jan-Hendrik Wessels was set to start against the Glasgow Warriors tonight, but Johan Ackermann had to pull him from the team after it emerged that he is facing a suspension for allegedly grabbing the genitals of a Connacht player last week.

- MIKE GREENAWAY

Wessels faces a nine-match ban for his alleged part in an altercation with flank Josh Murphy at a ruck.

While the Bulls are expected to appeal the ruling — there is no television evidence to back up Murphy's contention that he had been assaulted - it does not help the Bulls for their tour finale.

"There's no news yet on Jan-Hendrik," Ackermann said after naming a freshened-up team for the match that includes returning captain Ruan Nortje and former captain Marcell Coetzee.

"He would have played, of course, but when the decision was made, we had to adapt," Ackermann said. "That's what a good squad does — you must be adaptable.

"This will test our character again. It's an opportunity for other players to step up, like Etienne (Janneke), and it shows how quickly opportunities can come."

The Bulls began their tour with a disappointing 28-7 loss to Ulster in Belfast, although that loss can now be seen in the context of Ulster's impressive win in Durban over a powerful Sharks lineup.