Saracens dismiss Totoa Auvaa after investigation into weekend incident

Saracens have dismissed academy forward Totoa Auvaa following an investigation into an incident over the weekend. The club confirmed his immediate departure in a statement dated October 12, saying his behaviour had failed to meet the standards required of those representing Saracens, whether playing rugby or away from the field.

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The announcement followed an earlier club statement that a senior men's academy player had been stood down from all duties while an internal investigation took place. That initial statement referred to an incident in St Albans on Saturday, October 10. In confirming Auvaa's departure, Saracens cited their responsibilities to supporters, young people and commercial partners and declined further comment.

Sky Sports reported that Hertfordshire Police were investigating an altercation in St Peter's Street, St Albans, between 2.15am and 2.20am on Sunday, October 11. Police said a man in his 20s was allegedly approached and punched in the face by another man. The police statement quoted by Sky did not name Auvaa and said enquiries were continuing.

The 21-year-old Samoan's departure comes after an earlier nightclub incident involving England cricketers Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson in June. BBC Sport reported that Saracens had supported Auvaa following that episode and had decided against punishing him. The club's response to the latest incident therefore ends a period in which it had continued to back the young forward.

BBC Sport also reported two dismissals for violent conduct during Auvaa's loan spell with Ampthill last season. Both came against Hartpury: one for punching an opponent in November and another for kicking a player in the head in March. Auvaa had previously captained Samoa at under-20 and A-team level before his development in English club rugby was interrupted by these disciplinary problems.

Saracens and England hooker Jamie George backed the club's handling of the latest matter, according to Sky Sports. He credited technical director Brendan Venter and chief executive Ed Coetzee with addressing the situation and allowing the squad to concentrate on rugby. Saracens' public announcement did not describe the specific conduct behind its decision to release Auvaa.