Jamie George has spoken publicly for the first time about the nightclub incident involving Saracens academy forward Totoa Auvaa that ultimately saw Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson dropped for England’s second Test against New Zealand.
The Saracens and England hooker admitted Auvaa’s actions were “unacceptable”, but insisted the 21-year-old also needs support as he adapts to life in England.
The incident took place at London’s Rex Rooms nightclub on June 8 when Auvaa threw a punch at Atkinson but instead struck an England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) security guard.
The security guard required stitches following the incident but chose not to report the matter to police.
Despite carrying out their own investigation, Saracens decided not to discipline Auvaa, instead describing the incident as “regrettable for all parties involved” while pledging to help the young back-row forward learn from the experience.
Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.
Jamie George sends clear message
Speaking to The Times and The Telegraph, George made it clear there could be no excuses for Auvaa’s behaviour while stressing the importance of helping the youngster settle into life away from Samoa.
“He’s a young kid who has only left Samoa once.
“He is immature. He is a rabbit in the headlights in London. He’s a good kid, but he’s got it wrong. There’s no disputing that. But we need to make sure that we establish that sort of behaviour is unacceptable.
“There’s also a bit of me that thinks we’ve got to look after him because he doesn’t know right from wrong at the minute.
“We’ll look after him. We will make sure that he’s got role models around him.”
George’s comments underline Saracens’ belief that while Auvaa must be held accountable for his actions, the club also has a responsibility to support one of its brightest young prospects.
Incident had major consequences
The nightclub incident had significant repercussions beyond rugby.
Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson were both omitted from England’s second Test against New Zealand while the ECB investigated an alleged breach of team protocols stemming from the night out.
Although neither player was blamed for the violence itself, both were found to have breached team rules after being out beyond curfew.
Stokes has since retired from international cricket following the conclusion of the Test series, bringing the curtain down on a remarkable 15-year England career.
Meanwhile, Saracens confirmed Auvaa would face no formal punishment, with the Premiership club instead choosing to support the academy forward as he continues his development both on and off the field.
“So, the enthusiasm is great, and I think they’re excited to be away. It’s always a change when you come abroad on tour, and you’re in a different hotel, and a different city, and something different. So, yeah, I think they’re in good shape and good form.”
LATEST RUGBY NEWS
- Springboks team to face England – Nations Championship Round 1
- Former Leicester Tigers boss departs club with immediate effect
- Ellis Genge could be set for shock Bristol Bears departure
- PWR Final: Saracens 52-14 Trailfinders – Sarries storm to fourth league title as Marlie Packer signs off
- Wales player ratings vs Barbarians: Welsh star has best performance yet
- Henry pollock reveals the ‘easiest’ position to play in rugby
