SYDNEY // The controversial winger James O’Connor has been released from his Wallabies contract after a series of off-field incidents, capping a dramatic fall from grace for one of Australia’s top talents.
The 23-year-old was dumped from the Australian team last month after he was prevented from taking a flight because he was allegedly drunk, hours after Australia beat Argentina in a Rugby Championship match in Perth.
It was the last straw for the Australian Rugby Union (ARU), which announced “an early release from his national contract for 2013 and [we] will not offer him a national contract for 2014”.
“We appreciate James’ contribution to Australian rugby and his unique skill and flair when playing, but have come to this decision after looking into a number of incidents in recent years that are inconsistent with the values of our game,” ARU chief executive Bill Pulver said.
“We pride ourselves on living the values of rugby – passion, integrity, discipline, respect and teamwork. James has accepted these values need to be consistently upheld on and off the field at all times.”
The Perth airport flare-up came barely a month after O’Connor vowed to change his ways in a bid to keep his Wallabies jersey after a series of disciplinary issues.
They included being spotted at a burger bar at 4am three days before the must-win second Test against the British and Irish Lions in June. He also missed the team bus for the third Test.
In 2011 he was suspended after sleeping through the World Cup team announcement, with former great Nathan Sharpe last month making clear players had been disappointed with his behaviour for “a long time”.
“We would consider reviewing our position regarding a national contract for 2015 and beyond if we believe James’ behaviour is consistent with the values associated with being a Wallaby,” said Pulver.
“This has been a difficult decision for all parties.”
The release is effective immediately and as a result O’Connor will not be considered for selection for the Wallabies’ upcoming tour to England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Italy.