The Chiefs have confirmed that Sione Lauaki was involved in a car accident in the early hours of Saturday morning, south of Huntly but have pointed out that alcohol was not the cause.
After the Chiefs v Cheetahs rugby match in Hamilton on Friday night, Sione went through his normal post-match recovery session, followed by a meal and a couple of drinks with his teammates, before heading home to be with his family.
He was badly shaken and had some bruising on his right arm.
As is normal practice, blood tests were taken, and Sione’s hospital discharge sheet showed that the blood alcohol readings were well-below the legal limit.
No-one else was involved in the accident.
Lauaki, who was driving to Auckland said he fell asleep at the wheel.
"Ambulance staff attended the scene with Lauaki suffering a sore arm as a result of the accident.
"His arm is swollen and will continue to be assessed by Chiefs medical staff. Alcohol was not a factor in the accident.
Chiefs CEO Gary Dawson said "understandably Sione is shaken by this accident and we are all thankful it was not more serious."
Sione is still in shock following this serious accident. Taking this into consideration, and in consultation with Chiefs team management, Sione will be taking a few days off rugby training to recover.
Contrary to reports from other media Sione has not been ruled out of the Super 14 yet.
