Wigan star facing assault charge (From This Is Lancashire)

Wigan star facing assault charge

9:02am Monday 4th February 2008 in

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A Wigan Rugby League star is to appear in court charged with breaking a man's jaw with a single punch.

Wigan Warriors' 17-stone prop forward Iafeta Paleaaesina is charged with grievous bodily harm following an incident at Wigan North Western railway station in October last year.

The 25-year-old, who has represented both his native New Zealand and Samoa at international level, is alleged to have punched bus driver James Campbell, 29, in the face.

The alleged assault took place at on Saturday, October 6, in the car park of the railway station and just hours after the Warriors were knocked out of the Super League play-offs by Leeds Rhinos.

Paleaaesina, a fans' favourite, had played in the game which shattered his side's hopes of reaching the final of the competition.

The player, of Rufford, Lancashire, will appear at Liverpool Crown Court for a plea and directions hearing.