Mortlock speaks about Tuqiri axing
Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:08
Wallaby players want clarification over the dramatic dumping of Lote Tuqiri, skipper Stirling Mortlock said on Thursday, adding the issue was now in the hands of the players' association.
Tuqiri's disputed sacking by the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) is heading to the courts next month and with speculation swirling over the wing's contract termination, the Rugby Union Players' Association (RUPA) is launching an investigation into why he was sacked.
Mortlock said it was important for the Wallabies to receive clarification over Tuqiri's axing.
"There has been a little bit of uncertainty and that's what RUPA is seeking to do, as I think that is pretty much the mindset of most of the guys, just trying to get a bit more clarity and certainty on the issue," he said.
With Australia's opening Tri-Nations Test against New Zealand just over a week away, Mortlock said that was the team's focus.
"From a playing group perspective with our coaching staff and management, we're very happy with the way we are progressing and everything that is going here," he said.
"Basically this a RUPA issue and RUPA are dealing with the ARU and that's pretty much what's going on."
Tuqiri's manager, Les Ross, confirmed the player's lawyer had commenced proceedings in the New South Wales Supreme Court against the ARU for breach of contract.
The governing body has not revealed why it sacked the 67-Test wing, citing the threat of legal proceedings.
Media reports have said that Tuqiri, overlooked for selection for the past four Tests by Wallabies coach Robbie Deans, was investigated by the ARU over allegations of inappropriate behaviour in a public place.
ARU chief executive John O'Neill said last week that Tuqiri received a letter two years ago warning that further contract breaches would not be tolerated.
Tuqiri, 29, was halfway through a five-year contract - reportedly worth 700,000 dollars (560,000 US) a year - that he signed with the ARU in early 2007.
AFP
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