Melbourne prop Tui Kamikamica has been cleared to return to training but will remain subject to the NRL no-fault stand-down policy as he prepares to fight an assault charge.
Key points:
- Kamikamica can resume training but cannot play until the incident has been finalised in court
- His next hearing is January 10, when he plans to challenge his assault charge
- Kamikamica’s alleged assault is the latest in a string of concerning incidents involving Storm players
Kamikamica had been stood down by the Storm last month when he was charged with assault occasioning bodily harm after an alleged incident with an unknown woman at a Brisbane nightspot.
The Storm forward only told his club of the situation after a police investigation, almost a fortnight after the incident.
He was then asked to front a formal interview with the club earlier this month, at which he told the club he planned to fight the charge.
On Monday, the Storm confirmed Kamikamica would be able to return to training on Tuesday for the first time this pre-season.
However, the Fijian international will not be able to play until his court matter is finalised, with his next hearing on January 10.
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“As a result of the [NRL] policy, and having considered all available information, the club believes it is appropriate that Kamikamica returns to training tomorrow,” Melbourne said in a statement.
Kamikamica’s charge has come as part of a poor off-season at the club, during which it has been forced to defend its culture.
Cameron Munster, Brandon Smith and Chris Lewis were fined and suspended after a video scandal involving a white powdery substance.
Smith also earned a strong rebuke for his expletive-laden appearance on a podcast, in which he announced his admiration for the Sydney Roosters, who he will join in 2023.
If Kamikamica’s case drags on, it will shape as a significant blow to the Storm, particularly with Nelson Asofa-Solomoa’s future remaining unclear.
The fellow prop was earlier this month still refusing a COVID-19 vaccination, meaning he was unable to train or play in Melbourne.
AAP