Four to face RFU disciplinary panel

England flanker Michael Lipman and three of his former Bath team-mates must face an RFU disciplinary panel charged with conduct prejudicial to the interests of the game.

The RFU have completed their initial investigation after Bath accused Lipman, Alex Crockett and Andrew Higgins of failing to take drug tests on three occasions following an end-of-season celebration in London.

Australian lock Justin Harrison had earlier left the club following lurid allegations stemming from the same evening.

All three players vehemently denied refusing to provide a sample and terminated their contracts on June 1, immediately before they were due to appear before a Bath disciplinary hearing.

Twickenham's disciplinary manager Bruce Reece-Russel launched the inquiry following allegations against the quartet.

The RFU statement read: "The RFU, and our partners at Premier Rugby, work tirelessly to ensure the reputation of the game is protected.

"The RFU have now completed their initial investigations into the allegations made against former Bath players Justin Harrison, Michael Lipman, Alex Crockett and Andrew Higgins.

"We can confirm we will be asking the players to appear before an RFU disciplinary panel charged with conduct prejudicial to the interests of the Game (rule 5.12) on a number of charges including taking prohibited substances and wilful refusal to take a drugs test.

"All details of the investigation now form part of the disciplinary process and to protect the integrity of the process will remain confidential.

"The RFU will make a further announcement when the panel has been convened and a date has been set but can confirm we intend to call a number of players, club management and other third parties to appear before the panel to support the case."

Bath chief executive Bob Calleja last night released a statement which read: "The club treat matters relating to drugs very seriously and we are perfectly satisfied that we acted correctly in requiring the players to explain themselves at an internal disciplinary hearing.

"They chose not to do so and, so far as we are concerned, our internal process is at an end, the players no longer being employed by the club.

"It would be inappropriate for the club to make any further comment until the RFU disciplinary process is concluded."