Former Rugby Union player Ioakimo Mulipola, 41, charged with assaulting and kidnapping woman

An ex-international rugby pro will cross examine witnesses, telling the court he has a “different version of events” to an alleged aggravated burglary incident he has been charged for.

Former Rugby Union player Ioakimo Mulipola, 41, faced Melbourne Magistrates’ Court charged with burglary, assault and robbery. Picture: Athos Sirianos.

A former international rugby player accused of invading a woman’s home before allegedly assaulting her will be able to question witnesses after a court heard he has a “different version of events” .

Ioakimo Mulipola, 41, of Derrimut, appeared at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday for committal mention, facing aggravated burglary and assault related charges.

It comes after he allegedly broke into a woman’s home in September last year in Melton and attacked her with a metal pole.

He was also charged with driving while disqualified.

Former Rugby Union player Ioakimo Mulipola, 41, was charged with burglary, assault and robbery. Picture: Facebook.

On Thursday the court heard the matter had not resolved, with issues around whether or not he was granted entry by the alleged victim.

The court heard one witness has refused to give evidence.

Mr Mulipola’s lawyer also requested to cross examine the police officer who attended the scene, on the basis he “may have information on why that witness refused to make a statement and the context around that happening” — which was granted.

The court heard Mr Mulipola had a “different version of events to the (alleged) complainant”.

Four witnesses will give evidence at the hearing later this year.

Mr Mulipola’s bail was extended and will next appear in court to cross-examine witnesses in May.

Mr Mulipola made 13 appearances for Super Rugby side Highlanders between 2007 and 2009.

He also played two test matches for Samoa in 2009.