Wigan Warriors rugby star is face assault trial

Feb 4 2008

A top Rugby League player is to face trial accused of breaking a man’s jaw with a punch at Wigan train station.

New Zealand and Wigan Warriors’ prop forward Iafeta Paleaaesina appeared at Liverpool Crown Court where he pleaded not guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm on bus driver James Campbell.

The appearance follows an incident at Wigan North Western railway station in October last year.

The 17-stone 25-year-old, who has also represented Samoa at international level, is alleged to have punched Mr Campbell, 29, in the face.

The alleged assault took place 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 had played in the game which shattered his side’s hopes of reaching the final of the competition.

The player, of Holmeswood Road, Rufford, Lancashire, was told his trial will begin on April 28.