Shaun Kenny-Dowall will not play for Sydney Roosters in Sunday’s NRL clash with the Warriors, in the wake of domestic violence allegations levelled against him.
In a statement released by the Roosters on Sunday morning the club advised Kenny-Dowall would not be playing in the round 19 match.
However the Roosters say the move “should not in any way be taken as an admission Shaun has done anything wrong”.
The club said the decision was taken in consultation with coaching and welfare staff.
Kenny-Dowall was arrested on Saturday and charged with a string of offences including the common assault and stalking of his former partner Jessica Peris.
The Kiwi international will face Waverley Local Court on Thursday and indications are that he will plead not guilty to the charges.
The Roosters statement read in full: “The Sydney Roosters wish to advise that following consultation with the club’s coaching and welfare staff, it has been decided together with Shaun Kenny-Dowall, that he will not be playing this afternoon.
“This should not in any way be taken as an admission Shaun has done anything wrong and to do so would be incorrect.”
Kenny-Dowall’s place has been taken by Brendan Elliot.
pjm
Roar Rookie
He should just plead guilty ASAP, spend a year in prison and then be back playing in 2017. That seems to be the way it goes.
Alex L
Roar Rookie
Perhaps he wants time to get his legal affairs in order? If the decision was made after discussion with the coaching and welfare staff at the club, why would you assume it's in anything but the bests interests of both the player and the team?
Benny
Guest
Because he's not in the right mindset to play. Best to give him a week off as it's all pretty hot in the media at the moment
Muppet
Guest
Why does he get stood down when he isn't convicted? It is one persons word against the other at this point? If a person in another type of employment (as that is what this is) was charged for a personal matter would they be stood down from their position? This is very dangerous territory in the absence of known evidence and conviction.