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England rugby international Olly Barkley has been charged with assault following an incident at a private event in July, Thames Valley Police said on Wednesday.
The 26-year-old Bath back, who has 21 international caps and was part of England's World Cup squad this year, will appear at Aylesbury Magistrates Court on Dec 31.
"Bath Rugby can confirm that Olly Barkley has been charged with an allegation of actual bodily harm arising from an incident that took place prior to the commencement of the current season when at a private function on the 15th July," a Bath club statement said.
"Olly vigorously contests wrongdoing on his part, as he has done from the outset. As demonstrated this season Olly remains completely focused on his rugby and will not allow this matter to distract him from his immediate rugby commitments."
- REUTERS
