Three players ‘too drunk to board plane’ thrown out of Scotland World Cup squad

Captain Danny Brough is one of three players released from Scotland’s Rugby League World Cup squad after being deemed too drunk to board a flight.

Brough remained in Christchurch with Sam Brooks and Johnny Walker while the squad flew to Cairns for next week’s final group game with Samoa.

Scotland Rugby League chairman Keith Hogg said: “These players have not adhered to the standards of behaviour.

“They will leave early a tournament it is a privilege to be involved in.”

Huddersfield Giants half-back Brough and the two props – Featherstone Rovers’ Brooks and Darlington Point Roosters’ Walker – are believed to have continued drinking after the rest of the squad had finished and the airline refused to allow them to board the flight.

The Scotland management supported the airline’s decision and informed the English-born trio they would play no further part in the tournament.

Walker, whose brother Adam also plays for Scotland, has made six international appearances while Brooks has three caps.

“We must respect the sport and everyone involved in it at all times,” added Hogg.

“We fully support the code of conduct that is in place for everyone who is involved in the 2017 World Cup.”

The Scots have lost both of their World Cup Group B matches – against strong sides Tonga and New Zealand – but could still progress from the group with a win over Samoa because the top three teams go through.