Vainikolo charged over brawl

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The 29-year-old former rugby league star was held after a fight in Bath, Somerset, at 2am on October 26.

A man in his 20s was taken to hospital with head injuries first thought to be "critical", but was later discharged.

He will appear at Bath Magistrates' Court on January 2 charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent, Avon and Somerset Police said.

The Tongan-born winger made his England debut in the RBS 6 Nations tournament earlier this year.

Gloucester spokesman Alastair Downey said there was "no reason" why Vainikolo, who remains on bail, could not feature in Gloucester's next match.

In a statement, the club said Vainikolo "vigorously contests" the allegation and would not allow the case to distract him from his game. He has not been suspended.

Downey said: "Gloucester Rugby can confirm that Lesley Vainikolo has been charged with an allegation of grievous bodily harm (GBH) arising from an incident that took place on October 26 2008.

"Lesley vigorously contests this allegation and, as demonstrated this season, remains completely focused on his rugby and will not allow this matter to distract him from his immediate rugby commitments to both his club and country.

"Neither the player or the club will be making any further comment."