Otago suspend bad boy Crichton

Otago loose forward Daniel Crichton has been suspended by the Otago Rugby Football Union (ORFU) as they await the outcome of his court appearance on charges of assault on July 25.

Chrichton was arrested and charged by Dunedin police after an incident in April and he has pleaded not guilty to the three charges of assault. The physical loose forward who has represented Tasman, Auckland and Counties-Manukau is yet to play a game for Otago.

ORFU General Manager Richard Reid commented: “Following a further incident last weekend, and after consulting the New Zealand Rugby Players Association, the ORFU has decided to take this step. Daniel will be on full pay and will have access to training facilities and physiotherapy services to assist him with his recovery from a hamstring injury.

“The ORFU has reserved its position, as is the norm, until the outcome of the judicial process is known,” said Reid.