Former Sale Sharks winger Marland Yarde made his long-awaited rugby return with the Barbarians in November.
The former England winger was invited to play against Harlequins, Bath and Northampton Saints for the famous invitational side.
Having not played since January, Yarde finally broke his silence in September after being arrested back in January on suspicion of having committed a serious offence.
Having not been charged, the winger has released a statement to his friends, family and supporters.
He wrote: “In January, as I think it is known by some of the rugby community, I was arrested on suspicion of having committed a very serious offence,” began Yarde. “A necessarily lengthy police investigation followed but I can now confirm that no further action is to be taken against me. I have not been charged with any offence.
“Whilst I never doubted my innocence, I understand that the investigation had to be handled with care and sensitivity for the protection of all involved. Although innocent of the crime alleged against me, I take full responsibility for having put myself in a situation where an allegation could be made against me.
“I am working hard to improve as a person using what the incident has taught and shown me. I want to apologise to all my family and friends for the hurt and distress I have caused them. Their love and support gave me the strength to see a positive future, and I look forward to resuming my career doing what I love which is playing rugby.”
Yarde has now found a new permanent home, signing with Top 14 side Bayonne, who currently sit sixth in the table following their promotion last season.
Yarde said in a tweet: "
“Haven’t spoke for three years” – Five rugby stars Joe Marler hates
England prop Joe Marler is never afraid of sharing an opinion or two - especially when it's about someone he doesn't particularly like.
#1. Sir Clive Woodward
Woodward tore apart Eddie Jones' side during a webinar, slamming Marler and fellow prop Dan Cole for their behaviour in a press conference prior to the loss against South Africa back in November. This wasn't the first time the 2003 World Cup-winning coach called out the prop.
After reading an article on the Rugby Pass website highlighting Woodward's comments, he tweeted him directly, saying: "Change the record Sir Clive - you should be grateful you can 'milk the cow' for another 3 years."
#2. Israel Folau
Over 1,000 days since Folau last played a professional match of rugby union, Marler's old Twitter sparring partner made his return to the sport over the weekend.
The loose-head prop takes any chance he can to call out the former Wallabies fullback, who could soon represent Tonga, for his homophobic views.
In a series of tweets sent directly to Folau, Marler attached pictures and GIFs of men kissing, in a display of defiant humour which was praised by fellow players and LGBTQ fans alike.
Marler later named Folau in his dream team in a tongue-in-cheek fashion.
On selecting Folau as his fullback, Marler commented, "On the night out, after we had played our match on the Saturday, I'd take him out in Brighton to The Blue Oyster... a couple of clubs."
#3. Marland Yarde
The winger dramatically left Harlequins in 2017 to join Premiership rivals Sale Sharks in an unusual mid-season move.
Marler said: “I hadn’t spoken to the bloke in 18 months,
“I’d lost the plot with him a good while ago. And let him be, let him do his own thing, because I’d given up on it
“He’d made the decision that he wanted to leave…you know, all the best to him. I wish him all the best. I don’t wish nastiness upon anyone.
“He’s one of those to just leave, as he won’t change in my mind. Me and him just don’t get on.”
#4. Marcos Ayerza
Both players were red carded by referee Wayne Barnes, who saw the incident unfold right in front of him, with Leicester prop Marcos Ayerza head butting Marler, who then retaliated with a few seemingly well placed punches in 2011.
#5. Mark Lambert
Marler wrote: "Nicknamed Smug Pig, not only did he act like he was all superior, he had a reputation for really, really enjoying his food."
Mark Lambert (Harlequins) is tackled by Carl Rimmer (Exeter). Harlequins v Exeter Chiefs. PHOTO: Mandatory by-line: Garry Bowden/Pinnacle - Tel: +44(0)1363 881025 - Mobile:0797 1270 681 - VAT Reg No: 183700120 - 210215 - Aviva Premiership rugby, The Twickenham Stoop, London, UK
