Chiefs sorry for female warden abuse
The Waikato Chiefs have apologised after players were accused of hurling obscenities at female traffic wardens in the latest sexism episode to hit New Zealand rugby.
Local media reported that players swore at the two council wardens using the c-word when they left a training session in Hamilton and realised some of their cars had been ticketed.
The Chiefs, the Super Rugby team that was at the centre of a stripper scandal last year, said the council complained "that inappropriate comments were made as some were leaving voicing frustration at the situation".
"The team has been questioned today and say that while the comments were not directed at the parking wardens, they apologise sincerely for any distress caused to the wardens involved," coach Dave Rennie said.
Last year, a stripper alleged she was groped and demeaned during a Chiefs' player function.
An internal NZR review cast doubt on her story and cleared the players but women's groups said the investigation smacked of victim blaming.
In response to the backlash, NZR set up a "respect and responsibility review" to examine ways to curb rugby's macho culture and make the game more inclusive.