Connacht confirm decision on Sevu Reece following violent incident with partner

Connacht Rugby have come to a decision regarding incoming Mitre 10 star Sevu Reece.

The 21-year-old Fijian admitted his guilt during a court case where he was on trial for domestic abuse last week.

The former age grade rep had originally signed a two-deal to commence following this year’s Mitre 10 Cup. Connacht and the IRFU had been following the developments after Reece was questioned about the incident in July.

Reece was granted a discharge without conviction over the domestic violence incident.

However Connacht have not given the Fijian born player the benefit of the doubt.

In a statement released today: "Connacht Rugby and the IRFU have taken the decision, following contact with Sevu Reece in relation to the circumstances of a recent court appearance, not to proceed with a contract to play with the province.

"Connacht Rugby and the IRFU will make no further comment."

The 21-year-old Fijian has hit a rich vein of form in the 2018 Mitre Cup, and leads the competition with five tries.

Reece has played a key role in turning the season around for the embattled province, helping them win three consecutive matches over an impressive eight-day span to send the side to the top of the Championship standings.

Reece did not play for an international under-20 side so could potentially represent Fiji, New Zealand or Ireland in due time if he completes eligibility under residency rules.

He could have followed in the footsteps of Ireland international Bundee Aki, who has been with Connacht since leaving the Chiefs and Counties in 2014.