Rebels' parting gift to brawling players
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: The Rebels have handed out some unwanted parting gifts to two brawling players – Amanaki Mafi and Lopeti Timani.
The franchise handed down ‘financial sanctions’ to the duo for breaching team protocols and team management instructions – after the Rebels’ loss to the Highlanders last Saturday.
Mafi was granted bail, after being charged with assaulting his teammate, Timani – who received ‘moderate’ injuries.
Rugby Australia said Mafi was taken into police custody after an altercation with Timani in Dunedin.
The 28-year-old appeared in Dunedin District Court on Monday charged with assault with intent to injure, an offence that carries a potential jail term of five years.
The case will come before the courts again on August 3, although Mafi was excused from having to appear personally on that date.
Under the Rebels’ disciplinary protocol, each player has been fined the maximum AU$15,000.
“Notwithstanding that both Amanaki Mafi and Lopeti Timani were finishing at the Rebels this season and heading overseas to continue their playing careers, it is only appropriate, given the seriousness of the incident, to sanction both players with a significant fine,” Rebels Chief Executive Officer, Baden Stephenson. said.
“Along with the Rebels Board, coach David Wessels and club management, we have strived this year to re-build a culture which values respect and excellence in everything we do.
“The actions of these two players is totally contrary to our franchise’s values and has tarnished the excellent work of so many in the club, both on and off the field this season.
“I only hope that both Amanaki and Lopeti genuinely reflect on and learn from this very troubling incident.
“The franchise has supported both players over recent days and will continue to ensure their well being now and into the future.”
Rugby Australia is conducting its own investigation and will await the outcome of the current criminal process underway in New Zealand with Amanaki Mafi before deciding on further possible action under the Professional Player Code of Conduct.
The AU$30,000 in fines will be donated to the Rugby Victoria Quilt program – an education and participation program designed to use Rugby as the vehicle to prevent domestic violence, create inclusive sport and recreation environments to ensure that both women and children are not only safe, but respected and treated as equals.
