Club Statement - Craig Mitchell

Exeter Rugby Club have conducted an internal disciplinary hearing with Craig Mitchell following his arrest and conviction in Australia last week.

Following the hearing, the club can now issue the following statement:

"Exeter Rugby Club Chief Executive Tony Rowe OBE, together with Head Coach Rob Baxter, have today reviewed closely CCTV footage and discussed in depth the incident involving first-team squad member Craig Mitchell.

"Following this review process, the club have found Craig Mitchell guilty of bringing not only the club, but also the game of Rugby Union, into disrepute. The club feel the six-month suspended sentence, together with the fine imposed on the player by the Australian authorities, is sufficient punishment.

"However, Craig Mitchell has been given a written warning by the club that should he transgress in a similar way over the next six months, then his contract with Exeter Rugby Club could be terminated at the club's discretion.

"The club once again re-iterates its previous stance that it does not condone law breaking of any kind and will continue to stress with all of its employees the importance of acting as positive ambassadors – even in difficult and unwanted circumstances."

Craig Mitchell wishes to express his remorse not only to the victim and those involved in the incident, but also to Exeter Rugby Club, the Welsh Rugby Union and his family.