Step 1 - Letter
Dear Ali,
While on tour there have been a number of alleged breaches of team protocol by you. The purpose of this letter is to set out the allegations. We want to meet with you tomorrow at which time you will be given the opportunity to give your side of the story. We strongly advise that you bring a support person with you to the meeting. One outcome of our meeting may be that you are sent home to New Zealand.
On Tuesday in Perth it has been reported to us that you went out drinking with other Blues players (Joe Rokocoko, Angus McDonald and David Holwell) who were not in the 22 selected to play the Western Force. As you know the leadership group of the team had decided that there would be a no-drinking policy while in Perth until after the match.
You were part of the 22 squad and if you did go drinking you have breached that rule. The next day you drew attention to yourself by appearing to be hung over.
When we flew to Sydney on Saturday you were told by management not to indulge in a big night out as we might have to fly to South Africa on Sunday morning. We understand that you went out with Luke Macalister into town and returned to the hotel very late. Our understanding is that when you returned some Blues players were still up watching the Bulls v Reds match which was at 3.10 a.m.
The following morning it is alleged that you made an inappropriate comment to a waitress (one would put in here the exact comment).
We need to meet with you to discuss all these events. If your explanations are not accepted you need to understand that you may be returned to New Zealand without playing any further games.
Step Two
Meet. Listen to the explanations. If explanations are given that require further investigations, do those investigations. Let Ali comment on those further investigations before a decision is made.
Step Three
After the meeting (or after completing further investigations and letting Ali comment on those investigations) make a decision and advise Ali of it.
Step 4
If you are going to send him home then make sure you win the next game!
