Cipriani Back In Rebels Contention

Danny Cipriani could make his first appearance in more than a month for the Melbourne Rebels after his suspension from playing for the Super Rugby franchise was lifted.

The former Wasps player was unavailable for the Rebels recent 40-3 defeat at the hands of the Stormers and also missed their recent two-week tour of South Africa after being stood down for a series of off-the-field indiscretions.

Cipriani first found himself in hot water earlier this season when he was reprimanded for taking a bottle of vodka from a Melbourne nightclub. The 23-year-old was then further punished for reaking team orders to attend a nightclub with a team-mate after the Rebels had lost their Super Rugby clash with the NSW Waratahs.

The Rebels said they had “lost confidence” in Cipriani following revelations about his behaviour away from rugby. His future in Australia looked in doubt after Bath revealed they had been contacted over the possibility of a move back to England, while Cipriani himself admitted he was tempted by a move to Toulon when the Super Rugby season ended.

Now the Rebels, who were forced to deny claims Cipriani had quit Rugby 15 earlier this month, have revealed that talks between the two parties have led the his suspension being lifted.

“Following detailed consultation between Danny Cipriani, his management, RUPA (Rugby Union Players Association) and the Rebels, it was resolved that Danny's current suspension will be lifted," the Rebels said in a statement.

"Danny has returned to training for the Rebels and will be available for selection in this week's game against the Brumbies. Both parties have agreed that no further public comment will be made and confidentiality will be respected."  

Cipriani will now look to be involved in the final two rounds of the Super Rugby season, with the club desperate to end the season on a high having found themselves at the foot of the table.