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Eels and San Francisco 49ers unaware of ‘alarming’ rape allegation brought against Jarryd Hayne in civil claim

NRL star Jarryd Hayne’s club the Parramatta Eels knew nothing about the allegations against its star player until they became public yesterday.

NRL star Jarryd Hayne’s club the Parramatta Eels knew nothing about the allegations against its star player until they became public yesterday.

And his former club the San Francisco 49ers said the allegation against its former player was “alarming”.

Eels club chairman Max Donnelly said the club was completely in the dark about the 2015 rape allegations.

“The Club has been made aware of serious allegations regarding Jarryd Hayne ­during his time with the San Francisco 49ers,” Mr Don­nelly said.

“We were unaware of these allegations until they were made public today. As with any legal matter, it is important that we follow due process and ensure that we review all relevant information available, including giving Jarryd the opportunity to respond.

Hayne warming up ahead of the 49ers game against the Seattle Seahawks in 2015. Picture: Getty
Hayne warming up ahead of the 49ers game against the Seattle Seahawks in 2015. Picture: Getty

“The club will continue to monitor the situation and when appropriate we will provide an update to members and media.’’

An NRL spokesman said the Integrity Unit would ­continue to monitor developments in the case.

“We note that the police in the United States did not proceed with any criminal proceedings but we will review the information available and continue to monitor the civil case,” a spokesman said.

The San Francisco 49ers were also taken unawares by the “alarming” allegation.

“This is the first we have heard of this matter and the alarming allegation regarding a former employee,” a San Francisco 49ers spokesman told NRL.com.

The Rugby League Players’ Association said it “would like to reiterate that there is a legal process that needs to be followed through and respected”.

“We urge the public to ­respect the privacy of the individuals involved, particularly while due process is being ­followed,” the Association said in a statement.

Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/eels-and-san-francisco-49ers-unaware-of-alarming-rape-allegation-brought-against-jarryd-hayne-in-civil-claim/news-story/b3195cd6fb5442a390e30326f4eb09a8