Reni Maitua’s contract with Canterbury is in danger of being torn up after nightclub
RENI Maitua’s contract with Canterbury is in danger of being torn up as the NRL investigates his role in a wild brawl outside Brisbane nightclub Hot Gossip.
The 32-year-old Canterbury forward, who has battled depression, was omitted from Samoa’s Four Nations team on Tuesday along with North Queensland Cowboys centre Tautau Moga and Wests Tigers backrower Sauaso Sue.
Moga was arrested for public nuisance following a brawl on Sunday morning in Fortitude Valley.
Police had to use capsicum spray to diffuse the brawl which involved several Samoan players and members of the public.
Eight men were charged over the incident, including a 32-year-old NSW man who faces charges of obstructing police and assault.
Police and the NRL would not say if that 32-year-old man is Maitua.
Samoa’s team announcement confirmed the three NRL players were involved in the brawl and were effectively suspended for their clash against England on Saturday night because of it.
“Please note that Reni Maitua, Tautau Moga and Sauaso Sue were not considered for selection for the match against England pending finalisation of an NRL Integrity Unit review of an incident in Brisbane over the weekend,” a statement read.
Maitua was set to be sacked from the Bulldogs late in 2013 after being charged with assault following an alcohol-driven exchange with a taxi driver.
The assault charge came during a traumatic time for Maitua who attempted suicide last year but was saved by former Queensland centre Willie Tonga.
Following the assault allegation, Bulldogs officials made Maitua agree to a stringent set of behavioural guidelines in his contract.
The NRL integrity unit and the Bulldogs could find those guidelines were breached on Sunday morning.
Canterbury chief executive Raelene Castle declined to comment to The Courier-Mail because of the NRL’s investigations.
The Samoan team was special guests at Hot Gossip for a VIP night during which fans were invited to meet them.
The NRL is still investigating the matter but has decided to stand the three players down from the Samoan team until they finish their investigation.
“Our inquiry is ongoing,” an NRL spokesman said.
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