http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/sport/nrl/story/0,26746,24481865-5003409,00.htmlA PLAYER banned from the NRL for bashing a woman is poised to return to Australia for the first time in two years.
Former Warriors and Cronulla hooker Tevita Latu has been selected to play for Tonga in rugby league's World Cup.
Latu has spent the past two seasons in the English Super League with Wakefield, forced to pick up the pieces after his controversial sacking from the NRL in May 2006.
Contracted to the Sharks at the time, Latu, 27, was charged with assaulting 19-year-old bikini model Brooke Peninton at a Cronulla Service station.
It was alleged that during a late-night altercation, Latu punched Peninton in the face, resulting in a broken nose and minor injuries. Latu was sentenced to eight months' periodic detention for his actions, which was reduced to doing community service on appeal. The Sharks had no hesitation in tearing up his contract as the NRL urged clubs not to sign the disgraced hooker.
After serving his penance, Latu signed with Wakefield, where he has since played 32 matches.
According to Tonga coach Jim Dymock, he had no hesitation picking Latu for the World Cup.
"He played for us last year and I was impressed with both his attitude and football,'' Dymock said.
"I know there was some drama with him previously, but everyone deserves a second chance.
"He's a quality player who I'm happy to have in the side. The boys are all keen to play alongside him also.
I've got some quality coaching staff around me, including Billy Johnstone and Solomon Haumono.
"So if any of the boys are thinking of playing up off the field then good luck to them. They'll need it.''
Dymock said he will use Latu as his first-choice hooker.
