- Wendell Sailor appeared in court at Sydney’s Downing Center
- An alleged drunken rampage ensued at a Sydney bar on November 6
- Sailor’s lawyer failed to get assault charge dropped
- The matter was adjourned for further hearing on January 30.
Former international double Wendell Sailor has faced court over an alleged drunken attack in a city center bar earlier this month.
The former Brisbane Broncos and Wallabies star, 50, faced Sydney’s Downing Center Local Court on Thursday.
He was charged with two counts of common assault, behaving in an offensive manner, refusing to leave licensed premises and stalking or intimidation.
On the night of November 6, Sailor allegedly remained near a Sydney city venue, Pappy’s Bar on Erskine St, after being refused service due to his behaviour.
He allegedly assaulted two people, one of whom is also accused of intimidation.
Claims by Sailor’s lawyer, Adam Houda, that police intended to drop one of the two assault charges were rejected by prosecutors in court.
“The officer in charge contacted me and told me he was going to drop the charges,” Mr. Houda said.
The prosecutor responded: “That is not the case, your honor.”
Former international double Wendell Sailor has faced court over an alleged drunken rampage at a Sydney bar earlier this month.
Sailor was charged with two counts of common assault, behaving in an offensive manner, refusing to leave licensed premises and stalking or intimidation (pictured, playing for the Broncos in 2001).
Claims by Sailor’s lawyer Adam Houda that police intended to drop one of the two assault charges were rejected by prosecutors in court, and the matter was adjourned for a further hearing on January 30.
An officer in charge of an investigation had no authority to unilaterally drop the charge, the court was told.
Sailor represented Australia in both rugby league and rugby union, including victory in the 2000 Rugby League World Cup where he was the leading try scorer.
He played nine seasons with the Brisbane Broncos, where he won three premierships, before ending his NRL career in 2009 after two seasons with St George Illawarra.
The matter was adjourned for further hearing on January 30.
In July this year, Sailor resigned from his role as a Triple M commentator with immediate effect.
“My main goal now is to spend more time with my children and pursue grassroots interests,” Sailor said in a statement.
‘I am deeply grateful for Southern Cross Austereo’s understanding and support of my decision. Balancing my career with family life is my priority.
‘Triple M has been an integral part of my professional journey. I have made lifelong friendships and cherish every moment commentating NRL games and presenting The Rush Hour.
“I am grateful for the encouragement I have received and am looking forward to my next chapter, to focus on family as well as interests such as golf and corporate opportunities.”