But Cipriani is now creating the wrong sort of headlines after an alleged nightclub incident a week earlier.

The former Wasps star, who moved to Australia last year, is alleged to have stolen a bottle of vodka from the nightspot before being asked to leave the premises following the Rebels' opening round defeat to the Warratahs.

Cipriani's conduct is being investigated by the new franchise but his fate will not be announced until tomorrow.

Cipriani had been due to appear in front of management and a group of senior players led by club captain Stirling Mortlock yesterday but the date was pushed back a day due to the players having other commitments.

There has been no official talk of the type or extent of punishment Cipriani may receive but it is thought that a fine is the most likely option if he is found to have breached team protocol.