New Zealand rugby team under fire over stripper assault allegations

The Gallagher Group is one of the main sponsors of the Chiefs

A row has erupted in New Zealand after members of a major rugby team were accused of sexually assaulting a woman hired to strip at a club party.

Police are looking into allegations that players from the Chiefs a club based in the city of Hamilton - groped and licked the woman as she danced.


The issue drew more attention after an executive from the club's major sponsor said the woman was partly to blame. The team's management also initially said she was "not beyond reproach".

Women's groups said the comments were "shameful". A second woman has now come forward making similar allegations.