Shaken Australia fullback Billy Slater says an alleged unprovoked attack on him in a British nightclub was a wake-up call for the whole team at the Rugby League World Cup.
The player, a member of the Australian squad at the tournament being held in England and Wales, was released by police after being briefly detained on Monday following an incident in Manchester.
After reviewing CCTV footage of the scuffle, police determined that Slater was the victim, then acted in self-defence when exchanging punches in the early hours of the morning, team officials said.
Slater, who had been out celebrating a victory over Ireland with teammates, said the police version of events was correct, but indicated he would not press charges.
“I’m disappointed that the spotlight is on this and not the tournament and the games we’ve played,” he said. “I just want to express my disappointment there and move forward.”
He added that while it was common for players to be provoked by members of the public, the incident was a reminder for them about what can happen when they are out.