Wigan Warriors' prop forward Paleaaesina denies bus driver assault

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He pleaded not guilty at the town's Magistrates' Court to grievous bodily harm.

The 25-year-old is alleged to have punched bus driver James Campbell, 29, in the face, breaking his jaw, following an incident at Wigan North Western railway station.

Paleaaesina, from Ivy Cottage, Homeswood Road, in Rufford, Lancashire, spoke only to confirm his name, address and enter his not-guilty plea.

He was arrested following the alleged assault, which took place at 5.20am on Saturday October 6, in the car park of the railway station, just hours after the Warriors were knocked out of the Super League play-offs by Leeds Rhinos.

Paleaaesina, a popular Kiwi import at the club, played in the October 5 final eliminator at Headingley which saw Wigan's hopes of reaching the play-off final shattered at the final hurdle.

Jayne Kearsley, prosecuting, said the incident had been caught on CCTV cameras at the railway station. Ms Kearsley said defendants, if convicted of assaults of this nature, are normally jailed for 18 months.

James Stock, defending, said his client had only just received the CCTV material and needed time to consider the evidence.

The case was adjourned until December 18 for a further appearance at the same court for committal to Liverpool Crown Court for a trial by jury.

Paleaaesina, a hard-running giant prop and firm fans' favourite at the JJB Stadium, was allowed by officials to exit the court via a side entrance in a bid to escape waiting photographers.