Vodacom Super Rugby
Guildford sits out S15 season
2013-01-26 09:21
Zac Guildford (Gallo Images)
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Wellington - Troubled All Blacks wing Zac Guildford will take an indefinite break from his Super Rugby Crusaders side as he seeks treatment for personal issues, officials said on Saturday.
Guildford, 23, who has a history of alcohol-related problems, is facing misconduct proceedings after an off-field incident earlier this month when he reportedly became involved in a brawl with a man at a party.
The New Zealand Rugby Union said he had decided to withdraw indefinitely from the Crusaders ahead of the Super Rugby season to undergo an intensive treatment programme.
"Zac's withdrawal from the Crusaders means they are able to concentrate on preparing for their 2013 season, and Zac will be free from rugby to concentrate on resolving his personal issues," NZRU chief executive Steve Tew said in a statement.
Guildford admitted to having alcohol issues when publicly reprimanded by the All Blacks' management during the 2011 Rugby World Cup and two months later announced a 12-month drinking ban after he ran naked into a bar and allegedly punched two men.
New Zealand Rugby Players Association chief executive Rob Nichol said Guildford had accepted he faced a major challenge which meant he had to put his career on hold.
"We have taken the advice of experts and Zac is committed to the plan they have developed," he said.
"It is fundamental that he commits fully to the plan, and sees it through - this means withdrawing from the rugby environment."
The wing has played 10 Tests and scored six tries for the All Blacks.