Australian rugby league star caught in controversy before quarter-finals.
Australian Rugby League team offcials have said star Billy Slater has been released by Manchester Police after his part in a nightclub fight last night.
The incident saw the Kangaroos fullback detained for questioning by police, but was let go after they determined he acted in self-defence before he was informed of his right to press charges.
“Australian Rugby League team management can confirm player Billy Slater was detained by police this morning and has been released without charge,” team offcials said in a statement.
“After reviewing CCTV footage of a scuffle outside a Manchester nightclub, police have determined that Slater was the victim who then acted in self-defence and has informed him of his right to press charges.
“Billy was returning to the venue to collect his jacket that he left behind when he was attacked. Both men were detained for several hours while police reviewed footage of the incident.
“The Australian team players were free of official duties after returning from Ireland.”
The Australian camp was rocked by reports early on Monday morning Slater has been arrested following their previous win against Ireland in Limerick.
Slater was detained by police in Manchester during a night out with teammates, after an incident at a nightclub in the English city.
As the Australian team looks to wrest back the Rugby League World Cup, any off-field distractions would be seen as a big road block.
Australia travelled back from Ireland to the UK on Monday following their 50-nil victory in their final pool match in Limerick.
The Kangaroos were supposed to be preparing for a quarter final clash against United States in Wales on Saturday.
It’s not the first incident of the tour, with forward Josh Papalii robbed on Australia’s first night in the UK.
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