Andy Powell handed driving ban for golf buggy incident

Wednesday 3 March 2010
Published By: Ben Welch
Six Nations > Wales

Andy Powell's late-night antics after the recent Six Nations match with Scotland have been punished once more after he was given a driving ban.

The Welsh player had already been dropped from this year's Six Nations squad after driving a golf buggy up the M4 while in an inebriated state, and has now felt the power of the authorities.

In addition to a 15-month driving ban, Powell has been fined £1,000 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £15 victim surcharge, as well as being forced to take a drink-driving rehabilitation test.

The prosecution heard how Powell, when stopped by police, quipped: "It was my idea, I was driving. I'm an idiot." He then allegedly added: "I was going down the M4 in a golf buggy. I'm a professional rugby player. What have I done?"

Many pundits have speculated that the incident may spell the end of the player's international career, but even if Powell does get re-selected he will have to get a lift to the training ground from another player.

Posted by Ben Welch