Tolu Latu cleared to play against Brumbies
Waratahs hooker Tolu Latu has been cleared to play against the Brumbies in Sydney on Saturday as he awaits sentencing on a drink driving charge.
Latu had been bracketed alongside Andrew Tuala in the Waratahs matchday 23 to face the Brumbies after he pleaded guilty on Thursday to drink driving but the club confirmed on Thursday night that the Test hooker was officially eligible to play on Saturday.
Latu’s court case was adjourned to June 14, with the 26-year-old yet to be sentenced for the offence.
He has already missed two Super Rugby matches after being stood down over the charge, news of which emerged just hours before the Waratahs’ Round 14 match against the Reds.
Latu, who was allegedly found slumped at the wheel the Thursday before the Reds game, failed to inform anyone at New South Wales Rugby or Rugby Australia about the incident and though he played against the Reds, he was then stood down until his court date.
That absence, coupled with an earlier six-week suspension and a mid-season calf injury, has meant the Wallabies contender has played only five matches from a possible 14 this season.
New South Wales Rugby released a statement late on Thursday night confirming Latu would be available for selection for this weekend, after showing contrition and committing to education and counselling during his two-match suspension.
The organisation did not rule out any further sanction for Latu once his sentence is handed down.
I’ve just been told that Tolu Latu will play against the Brumbies on Saturday night.
Decision comes despite pleading guilty to two charges today – driving without a licence and drink driving.
He was stood down for the past two Super Rugby matches.
— Christy Doran (@ChristypDoran) June 6, 2019
“We have taken into account the steps that Tolu has taken in recent weeks to address his actions and behaviours and acknowledge his time served on the sidelines,” said New South Wales Rugby CEO Andrew Hore.
“While he is still subject to potential Code of Conduct processes pending the outcome of his sentencing, Tolu will be available for selection for the NSW Waratahs until such time.
“While New South Wales Rugby Union does not condone this behaviour, we will be sure to also provide support to Tolu as he works through personal issues.”
Gibson said he was keen for Latu to play, confident he was on the road to rehabilitation.
“We’re just seeing what his lawyers advise us around the next steps,” he said.
“Obviously we’re keen for him to take his place this weekend and get some games for us.
“It’s hard to say (what punishment there will be).
“He’s served his two-match suspension, he’s taken his drink driver education courses, he’s sought counselling. So, he’s making the steps necessary to, in our view, to make a successful rehabilitation.”
Gibson said Latu would be a valuable addition to the side in a must-win clash against the Brumbies.
“He’d be an excellent boost,” he added.
“Obviously, he hasn’t played a great deal of rugby this year due to suspension so we’re obviously keen to give him that opportunity, bearing in mind there is a World Cup coming up.”