Wales suspend Phillips following late-night fracas in Cardiff

Wales yesterday indefinitely suspended Mike Phillips from squad duties following the publication of compromising photos taken in Cardiff city centre.

Phillips is seen being restrained by security staff outside a McDonalds at 3am in a series of images that have further damaged the reputation of the Welsh game following high-profile incidents involving Gavin Henson and Andy Powell. In one photo, Phillips' head is being held against the pavement by a bouncer, who is positioned on top of the prone 28-year-old Lions scrum-half.

When police arrive, Phillips is seen struggling as he is forcefully led from the scene in handcuffs.

A statement released by inspector Tony Bishop of South Wales Police read: "In the early hours of Tuesday, June 14 South Wales Police attended Queen Street, Cardiff, following information received that a man was being restrained by security staff. Officers attended and the individual was placed into a police vehicle while enquiries were made in the location to establish what had taken place.

"No complaints were received, no persons wished to provide statements and no offences were disclosed. The man was taken away from the area and no further action was taken."

The Welsh Rugby Union have reacted swiftly to what they view as a failure of disciplinary standards, suspending the player while further clarification over the incident is sought. Phillips has been told not to report to the National Centre of Excellence on Monday for the start of his personal training regime ahead of the World Cup and will remain outside the squad until further notice.

WRU group chief executive Roger Lewis said: "The player has been suspended due to a clear breach of the standards which we expect to be maintained by someone involved in one of our national squads."