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Drug-tainted O'Connor back in training

Toulon - Australian international James O'Connor, suspended by Toulon after he was busted with cocaine in Paris, returned to training with the Top 14 rugby side on Tuesday.

The 26-year-old with his trademark peroxide blonde hair was spotted during the team's training session at the club's grounds in southern France.

French police last month charged former All Black Ali Williams, who played for rivals Racing 92, with buying cocaine and O'Connor with possession of the drug.

The pair were arrested on February 25 outside a nightclub near the Champs Elysees in possession of 2.4 grams (0.08 ounces) of the substance.

O'Connor was fined for "use" of the drug, while Williams is due to appear in court charged with "buying drugs".

The pair will appear before a disciplinary commission of the French National Rugby League (LNR) on March 29.

O'Connor, who can play wing or fullback, appeared 44 times for Australia between 2008 and 2013. He made his debut at 18, the second youngest Wallaby in Australian rugby history.

According to police the two men were arrested while in the act of buying cocaine from two suspected drug dealers. Plain clothes officers saw Williams in a car with the two suspects while O'Connor was outside and appeared to be acting as a lookout, police said.

When they were challenged, Williams attempted to get rid of the cocaine by throwing it away, added the police source who said the two players had clearly been drinking.

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