Rugby: French scandal won't have knock-on effect, says NZRU

New Zealand's international reputation has bounced back from the Bastareaud affair, New Zealand Rugby Union head Steve Tew says.

He returned from Japan yesterday to hear French Prime Minister Francois Fillon had written to John Key to apologise for the rugby player's "unacceptable behaviour".

Mathieu Bastareaud, 20, lied about an alleged assault in Wellington after France's 14-10 defeat by the All Blacks on June 20. Police investigated the incident, which had the potential to damage the tourist industry, for several days until Bastareaud admitted he made it up.

Mr Tew told reporters that, based on headlines he had seen overseas, widespread publicity about the incident might turn out positive for New Zealand.

"The initial story didn't do New Zealand any good, but the story's become such a big issue now ... it's getting headlines, including that New Zealand's international reputation has been restored."

Mr Key said he appreciated the apology and was keen for both countries to "put the matter behind us now".

Mr Fillon said: "France's tour of New Zealand has been marked by the unacceptable behaviour of one of its players. By his false statements, as a result of which you had to intervene publicly, he seriously tainted the image of your country and its people."

He regretted the incident and wanted the two countries' shared rugby culture to continue.

Mr Tew echoed Mr Key's response and said Bastareaud was welcome to return to New Zealand.

Bastareaud was admitted to hospital in France with serious psychological problems this week after allegedly trying to commit suicide.

- NZPA