New Zealand Rugby (NZR) is facing another off-field headache after a member of the Mid Canterbury team was left facing charges following an incident in Gisborne this month. A police spokeswoman told the Herald a player in his 20s was arrested on October 2 and charged with assault with intent to commit rape. It is understood the incident occurred the day after Mid Canterbury played East Coast in Ruatoria. NZR was said to be aware of the matter, while Mid Canterbury Rugby Union chief executive Ian Patterson said he would not comment on matters before the court. The incident continues what has been a tumultuous time for rugby off the field.

Source: New Zealand Herald October 12, 2016 04:37 UTC