News

Two-day hearing set for Bath four

July 02 2009

The Rugby Football Union disciplinary hearing against Michael Lipman and three former Bath team-mates has been scheduled for July 29, it was confirmed.

England flanker Lipman, Alex Crockett, Andrew Higgins and former Australia lock Justin Harrison face a number of charges including "taking prohibited substances and wilful refusal to take a drugs test".

The RFU brought the charges of conduct prejudicial interests of the game on June 17 following an investigation.

Lipman, Crockett and Higgins all deny any wrongdoing.

In a joint statement issued after the RFU announced they were bringing charges, the three players admitted they would fight any accusations.

"Any charges brought by the RFU will be vigorously contested," it read.

"This is a matter that we take very seriously and will do everything possible in order to clear our names."

Lipman and Crockett were co-captains at Steve Meehan's Recreation Ground last season.

The duo and Crockett terminated their Bath contracts after being called to face a club disciplinary hearing, which preceded the RFU investigation.

Meanwhile, Harrison has retired from rugby and returned to Australia after being granted an early release from his Bath contract.

He has not commented on the charges.

The case, scheduled for two days, will start at 10am local time on July 29 and is to be heard by the RFU Disciplinary Officer, His Honour Judge Jeff Blackett (chair), John Brennan and Jeremy Summers.