Title: Barbarians Rugby Player Admits to Sexual Assaults in Cardiff Bar
Subtitle: Api Ratuniyarawa’s future in rugby uncertain after pleading guilty to charges
Api Ratuniyarawa, a prominent Barbarians rugby player, has recently confessed to sexually assaulting three women in a popular Cardiff city centre bar. Ratuniyarawa, who was included in the Barbarians’ squad for a match against Wales at the Principality Stadium, made his plea after being charged with two counts of assault by penetration and one count of sexual assault.
During court proceedings, it was revealed that the assaults were unrelated, with none of the victims having any connection or prior knowledge of Ratuniyarawa. The Fiji international’s defense lawyer argued that the incidents occurred under the influence of alcohol. Emphasizing Ratuniyarawa’s role as the sole earner for his family, the lawyer stressed his strong residential ties to the UK and pleaded that he was not a flight risk.
In light of these arguments, the request for an extension of Ratuniyarawa’s bail conditions ahead of his scheduled sentencing on January 9th was accepted by the judge. However, stringent conditions were imposed, including a curfew and restrictions on leaving the house during certain hours. Additional measures prohibited any contact with the victims and forbade Ratuniyarawa from entering Wales, except for his sentencing hearing.
Prior to the incident, Ratuniyarawa had played for London Irish, though the club had recently dissolved. The rugby player had pinned high hopes on his appearance for the Barbarians, believing it would lead to signing a contract with a new club. Unfortunately, the charges leveled against him have dashed those aspirations, leaving him with no choice but to apply for financial assistance.
While Ratuniyarawa denied two further charges of sexual assault, the Crown accepted the pleas made for the initial charges. Consequently, the future for this talented forward in rugby remains uncertain. Many await his sentencing, hoping for an appropriate resolution to the distressing situation.
As the news emerged, the rugby community expressed shock and disappointment over the scandal involving Api Ratuniyarawa. Forever Sports Online will continue to provide updates on Ratuniyarawa’s case as it progresses through the legal system, and the effects it may have on his future in the sport.
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