England winger Lesley Vainikolo has admitted he was relieved to have had charges of causing grievous bodily harm dropped.
England winger relieved as CPS discontinues its case
England and Gloucester winger Lesley Vainikolo has admitted he was relieved to have had charges of causing grievous bodily harm dropped.
The 30-year-old was accused of punching Jake Alicker outside a Bath nightclub in the early hours of October 26, 2008.
Earlier this month a jury failed to reach a verdict at his trial at Bristol Crown Court, with the Crown Prosecution Service, which was considering a retrial, now deciding to discontinue its case against Vainikolo.
And Vainikolo, who left court with his wife Sienna and seven-month-old son Kava, said: "I'm free. I'd like to thank God for this day and this great news.
"I would like to thank my barrister, my wife and son who have been there for me through thick and thin.
"The last year has been hell and I am lucky that my family and friends throughout the world have supported me.
Faith
"The prayers and the love have kept me sane.
"I would also like to thank Gloucester Rugby for having faith in me throughout this time."
While giving evidence, Vainikolo had told the court he only punched Mr Alicker to protect himself after he was "scared" and "intimidated" by his aggressive and threatening behaviour.
And Vainikolo said on Tuesday: "I would never lie, I told the truth and had God on my side. If you hide the truth you will be found out.
"I can get on with my life now. I am just going to concentrate on my rugby and spend more time with my family."
