No further action against fan involved in Tui altercation

Rugby Australia has confirmed no further action will be taken against the fan who became involved in a spat with Lukhan Tui after Saturday’s Rugby Championship loss to Argentina.

The flanker played the full 80 minutes as the Wallabies succumbed to a surprise 23-19 defeat in Gold Coast, a result that prompted an angry response among some spectators.

After the game, Tui became embroiled in a bout of grappling with one irate supporter, who was eventually dragged away.

It was an unsavoury end to what had been a tough few days for Tui, who lost his stepfather earlier in the week, and head coach Michael Cheika explained the back-row forward had become involved in the scuffle after the fan had knocked over the 21-year-old’s sister.

Everyone giving Lukan Tui a hard time. U muppets need to réalisé he lost his old man a few days before.. the fact he played n did his best under pressure for the wallabies. It speaks volume of his character…they lost so what!… you u my hero brus!! @LukhanTui

— nemzy (@nemani_nadolo) September 15, 2018

Cheika also revealed after the match that Tui had indicated he would not be playing for the Wallabies again in 2018, and on Monday Rugby Australia released a statement effectively bringing a close to the situation.

“This incident was not something you want to see at any sporting event,” CEO Raelene Castle said. “Emotions were running high after the match on Saturday night and I understand why Wallabies fans are frustrated after a result like that.

“Two fans came into the area where players’ families were gathered and were arguing and using offensive language in criticising the players over their performance.

“One of Lukhan’s young family members was physically caught up in this exchange and this prompted the reaction from Lukhan.

“Wallabies team management have been in dialogue with Lukhan since the incident and he has indicated that he does not wish to pursue the matter any further and therefore no further action will be taken by Rugby Australia.”

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