A TOP-flight rugby union player has appeared in court charged with rape.
Bristol Bears hooker Will Capon, 26, who has played for England at U20 and U18 levels, is accused of the assault in Exeter in September 2021.
He appeared at the city’s crown court to deny the charge.
He will face trial at the same court in September next year.
Capon, of Bristol, was granted unconditional bail by a judge.
The 17-stone star joined the academy of Bristol Bears in 2014.
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He made his senior debut in 2018 — helping the club gain promotion to the Premiership.
He was part of the England U20 squad at the 2019 World Cup, and in June 2021 was called up to a senior England training squad by then coach Eddie Jones.
Bristol Bears have been approached for comment.
