Gloucester release defensive statement on Cipriani in wake of court appearance

Gloucester Rugby have come to the defence of star flyhalf Danny Cipriani following his court appearance in Jersey this morning.

Cipriani pleaded guilty to charges of common assault and resisting arrest after an incident at a Jersey nightclub in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

The England international fly-half, who completed a move from Wasps to Gloucester ahead of the upcoming season, was initially hit with five charges, including larceny, assault on police and being disorderly on licensed premises.

The latter three charges were dropped at a hearing at Jersey Magistrates Court on Thursday, where Cipriani was ordered to pay a £2,000 fine and £250 in compensation.

"Danny is very remorseful after the incident and would like to thank those who supported him during this time. He fully accepts the outcome and his punishment from the judicial system this morning," read a statement from Gloucester.

"We are very proud of the culture we have within the group and the stated values which we strive to deliver against," added Gloucester CEO Stephen Vaughan.

"Incidents of this nature are very disappointing to be associated with, and we will deal with it in a robust but balanced way but based purely on the facts.

"As a high-profile sportsperson there is often a large degree of public and media scrutiny involved, which Danny is well aware of.

"The incident in question was over in a matter of seconds and was a reaction to the conduct of other parties involved.

"He knows his responsibilities and is aware of the impact of this type of incident on the club. However, Danny is a Gloucester Rugby player and will receive our full support as we focus on the exciting season ahead."

Cipriani has courted controversy previously, after being found guilty of drink-driving in 2016, while he suffered injuries in 2013 after being hit by a bus on a night out in Leeds.

Following a three-year absence from the England set-up, Cipriani returned to the fold for June's tour of South Africa, starting at fly-half in the 25-10 victory in Cape Town.