Newscastle Knights sack convicted packer

National Rugby League club Newcastle has sacked former New Zealand prop Russell Packer after he was sentenced to two years in jail for assaulting a man at Sydney in November.

 

In a statement Monday, Newcastle said it had formally advised Packer his contract has been terminated, effective immediately.

 

Packer is appealing his sentence.

 

Newcastle chief executive Matt Gidley said "there was never any doubt we would terminate Russell's employment following (last) Monday's sentence. 

 

However, we had a process. 

 

At our first opportunity to meet with Russell, we advised him formally of our decision."

 

-Sapa-AP