More Rebels in trouble

Super Rugby team Melbourne Rebels have found themselves in the midst of more drama, with two of their players suspended indefinitely after allegations the pair were involved in an incident that left a man in hospital.

The Rebels have confirmed that rookie players Hunter Paisami and Pone Fa’amausili have been stood down pending investigations. They have admitted to club management that they were involved in the incident, which took place in the early hours of Sunday in Melbourne.

No charges have been laid, although Fa’amausili has provided a statement to police, while Paisami is expected to do the same today.

The club said it was cooperating with any further investigations, as were both players. Rugby Australia had been made aware of the developments but did not comment.

The alleged incident came to light via social media, with the sister of the purported victim saying the man was knocked unconscious and had to be revived at the scene after what was described as a ‘‘coward punch’’.

The post also said that ‘‘our family is shaken to the core but are extremely blessed and greatful [sic] that this wasn’t a fatal attack’’.

Allegations of this nature couldn’t have come at a worse time for the Rebels, after No 9 Amanaki Mafi was arrested a week ago in New Zealand after an alleged attack on team-mate Lopeti Timani.

Fa’amausili and Paisami are both in their first seasons with the Super Rugby franchise.

Prop Fa’amausili, 21, has played only one match for the Rebels, an 11-minute cameo off the bench, but is signed to the club through to 2020.

Centre Paisami, 20, is yet to make a Super Rugby appearance.