Rugby Australia Reviews Training Ground Incident That Left Waratahs Player With Fractured Eye-Socket
Rugby Australia is conducting a formal review into a violent training ground altercation that resulted in NSW Waratahs lock Miles Amatosero fracturing the eye-socket of teammate Angus Scott-Young, with potential suspension looming for the 125kg enforcer.
Violent Exchange During Live Simulation Session
The incident occurred during a recent live game simulation at the Super Rugby club's Daceyville headquarters in Sydney, where tensions escalated following a tackle from Amatosero. According to reports, off-season recruit Scott-Young reacted strongly to the challenge, verbally confronting the towering lock before the situation turned physical.
Amatosero responded with a flurry of punches that connected with Scott-Young's face, resulting in the significant facial injury that is expected to sideline the loose forward for the Waratahs' season-opening clash against the Queensland Reds on February 13.
Apology Followed by Formal Investigation
It is understood that the 23-year-old Amatosero apologised to Scott-Young immediately after the training session concluded, with the Waratahs initially taking no disciplinary action. However, Rugby Australia has since intervened, with high-performance boss Peter Horne conducting interviews with both players and reviewing available footage of the altercation.
The governing body and club must now determine whether Amatosero breached the professional code of conduct, with his availability for upcoming trial matches against the Reds on January 31 and the Brumbies on February 5 now in serious doubt.
Statement Confirms Review Underway
In an official statement, Rugby Australia confirmed: 'The NSW Waratahs and Rugby Australia are aware of an incident that occurred recently during a Waratahs pre-season training session and are reviewing the matter.'
This development comes as the Waratahs attempt to move forward from a disappointing 2025 campaign that saw them finish eighth in the Super Rugby standings, with team cohesion becoming an immediate concern ahead of the new season.
Background of the Players Involved
Amatosero, who grew up in Sydney and attended Waverley College, joined leading French club Clermont at age 18 before linking up with the Waratahs in 2024. NSW coach Dan McKellar has previously spoken about the lock's considerable potential, stating: 'We've certainly seen development within him. I believe if he gets it right and values what's important in his position, he has the ability to play at the highest level.'
Scott-Young recently joined the Waratahs from English club Northampton Saints, with his pre-season preparations now disrupted by the facial injury sustained in the training ground confrontation.
The outcome of Rugby Australia's investigation will determine whether Amatosero faces suspension and what disciplinary measures will be implemented following this serious internal incident at one of Australia's premier rugby franchises.
