Australian Drop Six Rugby Players Over Drinking Session Before Ireland Match

Wallabies Drop Sozzled Six After Night Out Drinking In Dublin

Australia have dropped six Wallaby players following an "inappropriate" drinking session in Dublin ahead of their weekend international with Ireland.

Benn Robinson, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Nick Cummins, Tatafu Polota-Nau and Liam Gill are all been banned for Saturday's Test against Scotland, while prop Paddy Ryan will miss the game against Wales next week.

Nine other players have received written and verbal warnings after breaching team protocols. New Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie's harsh approach partly stems from a number of alcohol-related incidents involving Australian players over the past year.

Nick Cummins scored Australia's first try against Ireland

"This is not a simple process but it needs to happen so we can have a chance to be the best team we can be," said McKenzie. "Already this year we've spent a lot of time being crystal clear around behaviours to ensure we are in a position to take the step-up to the next level.

"The reality is that if we are going to reach these levels, the players need to be making the right decisions as professional athletes and need to do everything possible to perform at their best for each Test. We also need to recognise the players who are doing the right thing and ensure our behaviours are in-line with the expectations of our stakeholders and our fan base.

"There is no doubt having talented players unavailable will put this team under significant pressure but we won't be using this situation as an excuse. For us, this is a great opportunity to circle the wagons and re-calibrate our behaviours to get back on track off the field.

"I am disappointed on a personal level, but firm action is the best outcome when presented with a scenario like this. You need to deal with issues to ensure everyone can be accountable for their actions. The players involved have accepted the outcomes and we'll concentrate on moving on and making the best of the situation. Our entire focus remains on beating Scotland."

Australia beat Ireland 32-15 on Saturday.

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