Cowboys star Luciano Leilua will miss the upcoming Rugby League World Cup after being stood down by the NRL following an alleged domestic violence incident in Sydney.
NSW Police were called to a home on Alexandra Crescent, Harrington Park, after reports of an alleged domestic violence incident around 1pm on Monday.
Leilua was charged with common assault (domestic violence related) and intentionally or recklessly destroying/damaging property following the alleged incident.
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The NRL released a statement on Thursday evening stating that Leilua, who was set to represent Samoa at the World Cup, had been subjected to the league’s ‘No-Fault Stand Down’ rules.
“The NRL has advised the North Queensland Cowboys that Luciano Leilua is subject to a No-Fault Stand Down condition under the NRL Rules,” the statement read.
“The decision should in no way be interpreted as a view on the innocence or guilt of the player.
“The discretionary No-Fault Stand Down condition has been applied in this instance as the criminal charges involve allegations that the player has acted violently in relation to a female.
“Under the condition, the player is not permitted to participate as a player in the NRL competition or any representative competitions. The No-Fault Stand Down condition is recognised by the Rugby League World Cup.”
The NRL’s decision was also acknowledged by the Cowboys in a statement on Thursday.
“The NRL have today invoked their no-fault stand down policy for North Queensland Cowboys player Luciano Leilua,” the statement read.
“Accordingly, Leilua will now be stood down from all club duties.
“The Cowboys will continue to provide support to all parties involved and will await the completion of the court process before making any further comment.”
The Rugby League World Cup gets underway in England on October 15, with Samoa in Group A alongside the host nation, France and Greece.
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