AN Australian rugby star is a doubt for the World Cup after his Hino Red Dolphins team cancelled their season.
Wallabies lock Rory Arnold was hoping to be selected by Eddie Jones for the World Cup later this year.
GettyRory Arnold’s World Cup selection is in limbo[/caption]
But his chances have taken a hit because of the actions of his Dolphins team-mates.
Arnold, 32, and his team enjoyed a wild night out in Oita, Japan which resulted in a nightclub being trashed and a waitress assaulted, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
The League One club has cancelled their season, while Arnold is not believed to have been involved in any wrongdoing.
However he now faces a lengthy period on the sidelines where he will be unable to play in preparation for the World Cup.
He has reportedly been offered opportunities to join Australian Super Rugby teams, which he has turned down.
Arnold is said to be keen to stick to his three-year contract with the Dolphins which is worth a reported £2.5m a year.
His plan is to stay in Tokyo and keep fit with a personal training regime and hope he has already done enough to convince Jones to pick him.
Arnold’s situation is even trickier because of Australian Rugby‘s selection policy which allows only three overseas players to be picked under the Giteua law.
Arnold just about qualifies as he meets the 30-cap threshold, but Jones could opt for an Aussie-based lock such as Nick Frost, Caderyn Neville or Darcy Swain.