12 Nov 2013

Slater to keep place in Kangaroos after arrest

6:49 pm on 12 November 2013

Billy Slater is set to keep his spot in the Kangaroos' Rugby League World Cup side despite his involvement in an early-morning fight at a Manchester nightclub.

The 30-year-old Melbourne player was arrested but later released and cleared on any wrongdoing after being attacked by a member of the public while celebrating with his Australian teammates.

While England have dropped or suspended players over reported alcohol-related incidents at the tournament, Slater is likely to escape punishment because of the circumstances of his incident.

Both Manchester police and Australian officials say Slater was the victim and acted in self-defence after he was punched by a 40-year-old man outside the club.