Mafi arrested for allegedly assaulting Rebels team-mate

The Rebels’ disappointing end to the Super Rugby season took another turn for the worse when Amanaki Mafi was arrested for allegedly assaulting team-mate Lopeti Timani.

Rugby Australia and the Rebels confirmed that Japan international Mafi was in police custody following an incident in Dunedin after a 43-37 defeat to the Highlanders on Saturday.

That loss and the Sharks’ defeat of the Jaguares cost the Melbourne franchise a place in the quarter-finals for the first time in their history.

Mafi is due to appear in court on Monday after he is alleged to have been involved in an altercation with Australia back-row Timani.

A New Zealand Police spokesperson confirmed to Omnisport: “A 28-year-old man has been charged with injuring with intent to injure following an alleged assault in South Dunedin last night.

“The man is due to appear in the Dunedin District Court on the 16th July 2018.

“The alleged victim received moderate injuries following the incident. He did not require hospitalisation.

“The pair were known to each other.”

Rebels chief executive Baden Stephenson stated: “I am bitterly disappointed that an incident has occurred at the end of a season where we have taken pride in our on and off-field behaviour. 

“We will respect the process and won’t be making further comments until all investigations have taken place.”

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