Melbourne Rebels number eight Amanaki Mafi has been charged by police in New Zealand after an alleged altercation with team-mate Lopeti Timani.
The incident happened after the Australian outfit’s 43-37 defeat to the Highlanders, a result which cost them their place in the end-of-season play-offs.
Mafi will now appear in Dunedin District Court on Monday charged with injuring with intent to injure.
“The alleged victim, also a 28-year-old man, received moderate injuries following the incident,” a police spokeswoman said.
“He did not require hospitalisation. The pair were known to each other. As the matter is now before the court, police are not in a position to comment further.”
Rugby Australia released a statement saying that they and the Rebels were aware of an incident which took place after their defeat to the Highlanders.
“Both players remain in New Zealand with Mafi currently in police custody following an altercation between the two players,” RA said.
“Rugby Australia understands that no other players were involved in the incident.”
Rebels chief executive Baden Stephenson added: “I am bitterly disappointed that an incident has occurred at the end of a season where we have taken pride in our on and off-field behaviour.
“We will respect the process and won’t be making further comments until all investigations have taken place.”