Rugby players refute sex claim - News in brief - Evening Standard
       

Rugby players refute sex claim

Four England players deny an allegation of rape and/or serious sexual assault in "the strongest terms", according to Rugby Football Union chief executive Francis Baron.

Auckland police's adult sexual assault team are investigating an incident alleged to have occurred at the England hotel.

No formal complaint has been made by the woman responsible for the initial allegation. Consequently, the players in question declined to speak with authorities, after taking independent legal advice.

Auckland police have confirmed for the first time they received an allegation of "rape and/or sexual assault" against four of the England playing squad.

Baron said: "The police have mentioned, through our legal representatives, four names. Each of the individuals has denied any wrong-doing in the strongest terms.

"There are some lurid allegations floating around. The boys have totally denied them. In our view those boys are innocent until proven otherwise.

"They have and will continue to have our full support in their efforts to clear their names as soon as possible."

The RFU has hired independent lawyers for all four players, who are said to be "angry and frustrated" at being unable to actively clear their names.

But the legal advice is for the players not to answer any police questions unless the alleged victim comes forward with a formal complaint.

Baron acknowledged that it would be difficult for the players to clear their names unless a formal complaint was actually made.

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