Thursday 9 October 2014 09:42, UK
Australia back Kurtley Beale has been suspended and accused of sending offensive text messages about a team official.
The 25-year-old was already facing the possibility of disciplinary action from the Australian Rugby Union for clashing with a staff member on a flight to Argentina last month.
This matter relates to Kurtley Beale allegedly distributing what we consider highly inappropriate and deeply offensive text messages and images to a number of people in June, referencing an ARU staff member.
And he is now set to go before a tribunal to answer allegations he sent "highly inappropriate" messages in the summer.
ARU chief Bill Pulver said: "This matter relates to Kurtley Beale allegedly distributing what we consider highly inappropriate and deeply offensive text messages and images to a number of people in June, referencing an ARU staff member.
"We became aware of this incident this week and believe an independent tribunal is the appropriate forum for these allegations to be considered."
Beale, who has 47 caps, will not be considered for selection until the disciplinary process is complete.
