Sa dropped from New Zealand squad

Sa has four caps for the Kiwis

Utility player Setaimata Sa has become the latest withdrawal from New Zealand's Four Nations squad.

The Sydney Rooster, 22, recently appeared in court charged with a series of alcohol-fuelled offences, including assaulting a female police officer.

Sa, who has four caps, is due back in court on 14 October and has been stood down by both his club and country.

"It's pretty clear we need to send a message," said Kiwis coach Stephen Kearney. "He won't be selected."

St George Illawarra back row forward Jeremy Smith has also pulled out with an ankle injury, joining a long list of casualties which includes Roy Asotasi, Simon Mannering, Sam Rapira, Jerome Ropati, Taniela Tuiaki, Manu Vatuvei and Sika Manu.

New Zealand play Tonga in Rotorua on 14 October in preparation for their opening Four Nations game with Australia at the Twickenham Stoop in London on 24 October.