NZ Warriors forward Josh Curran has reportedly pleaded not guilty to separate assault and theft charges, after an incident at Port Macquarie in October.
Backrower Curran, 23, is alleged to have assaulted a 16-year-old male and stolen the teen's phone in the early hours of Monday, October 3.
New South Wales Police confirmed the 16-year-old suffered injuries to his face, as a result of the incident.
Curran was arrested by Manly Police a week after the alleged incident and was released on bail.
According to SEN, Curran's lawyer has attended court, where he confirmed the Warriors forward would contest all charges laid against him.
Curran is expected to return to court on February 1, 2023.
As per the NRL's no-fault stand-down policy, Curran is still permitted to train as part of the Warriors pre-season training.
The Warriors have stated they will not comment on the matter, until legal proceedings are completed.
Since his arrival at the Warriors in 2020, Curran has become one of their most important players.
Curran has played 35 games for the club, scoring eight tries and making more than 1000 tackles.