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Sex assault charge as Australia’s NRL hit by more scandal
SYDNEY, Dec 14, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Australia’s National Rugby League was
reeling from yet another scandal Friday with St George Illawarra Dragon’s
Jack de Belin charged with sexual assault.
The forward, who has played for New South Wales in the State of Origin, was
bailed over an alleged late-night incident with a young woman last weekend.
The 27-year-old is due to appear in court on February 12.
“The club is taking the matter very seriously and have been working with
Jack and all relevant authorities, including the police and the NRL Integrity
Unit,” St George said in a statement.
“Jack has been provided with welfare support to enable him the time and
opportunity to deal with the matter.”
It is yet another off-field headache for the sport which has spent years
trying to change its reputation for bad behaviour after a series of scandals.
This year has been blighted by incidents, with a string of players getting
into trouble.
High-profile star Jarryd Hayne, who is currently without a club, was also
recently charged with sexual assault while earlier this week Manly’s Dylan
Walker pleaded not guilty to domestic violence.
In September, two Canterbury Bulldogs players were charged with obscene
exposure after being pictured vomiting and stripping naked at a pub.
And in November, new Australia skipper Greg Inglis was suspended for two
games after being caught allegedly drink-driving just hours after his
appointment.
BSS/AFP/MRI/0814 HRS