New Zealand rugby, a national religion, is facing a crisis as a string of scandals tarnishes the sport's reputation. Reports have emerged that a member of the Mid Canterbury rugby team has been charged with assault with intent to commit rape in Gisborne. This follows revelations that star scrum-half Aaron Smith was seen entering a toilet cubicle with a woman at Christchurch Airport, leading to his removal from the squad that beat South Africa.
Earlier this year, members of the Super Rugby side the Chiefs were accused of sexually assaulting a woman paid to strip at a club function. Additionally, Losi Filipo, a highly rated teenager at the Wellington Lions, was discharged without conviction over charges of assaulting four people, including two women. One victim suffered migraines and chronic fatigue after being punched repeatedly.
In France, former All Blacks legend Dan Carter has been accused of failing a drug test after his club's victory over Toulon in June, though his agent has denied the allegations. Kevin Norquay, a senior sports journalist, told the BBC the scandals have dented rugby's reputation, with social media allowing fans to voice their displeasure.
Despite the controversies, many Kiwi fans remain forgiving. Nigel Dobbie, a Sydney-based supporter, said: 'They are very forgiving. They expect the powers that be to exercise their powers of discipline and we move on.' Pippa Lekner, a PR consultant, noted that players are often seen as 'heroes of the young' and are reminded of their responsibilities, but added that if they play well, the public will forgive them.
New Zealand Rugby has yet to fully respond to inquiries about how it maintains discipline. The All Blacks, currently on a world record-equalling run of 17 consecutive test wins, face Australia on 22 October.
