Tuilagi will not be picked for Rugby World Cup squad

May 16 • General News, International, Rugby World Cup, Rugby World Cup News, World Rugby • 4254 Views • Comments Off on Tuilagi will not be picked for Rugby World Cup squad

Manu Tuilagi convicted on three charges of assault and one of criminal damage
Tuilagi will not be considered for selection until January 2016

England Rugby and Leicester Tigers have taken action against Manu Tuilagi following his conviction on three charges of assault and one of criminal damage.

Tuilagi pleaded guilty at Leicester Magistrates this week and was ordered to pay the court a total of £6,205 in fines, compensation, charges and costs.

England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster has spoken to Tuilagi and informed him that, in the light of his conduct and subsequent conviction, he will not be considered for selection for England’s Elite Playing Squads until January 2016.

“As role models and ambassadors for the game, the highest standards of behaviour are expected from every England player both on and off the field,” said Lancaster.

“Having spoken to Manu, he understands and accepts both the seriousness of the offences to which he has pleaded guilty and the consequences of his behaviour to his club, country and the game as a whole.

“England will continue to liaise with Leicester Tigers and have every confidence that the club will continue to support Manu in the right way.”

Leicester Tigers Director of Rugby Richard Cockerill said the club would also take internal disciplinary action against Tuilagi.

“Manu knows and accepts his responsibilities and has received a significant punishment in being excluded from the England squad and the club will also take internal disciplinary action,” said Cockerill.

“While we do not in any way condone his actions in this case, Manu is a young man who has grown up in the public eye and he is a good professional in a top-level environment.

“He always gives his time very generously to supporters, particularly young ones, wherever he goes, and fully understands the role that the fans have played in his career.

“We will continue to work closely with him on his return to full fitness and look forward to his return to the field in due course.”

Tuilagi has apologised for his actions. “I take full responsibility for my actions and unreservedly apologise to all those involved in the incident, Leicester Tigers and England.

“It is something I deeply regret and I totally accept the sentence given by the court. The club and Stuart have been very supportive and I understand their sanctions too.

“I know, as an England player, the need to conduct myself as a good role model for the game. I am very disappointed because my actions have let so many people down and I can only hope for a future chance to prove myself again.”

Courtesy of RFU