Carlos Spencer attacked in SA bar

Former All Black first five Carlos Spencer was assaulted in a bar following a match in South Africa last week.

The 35-cap international was part of the World XV that came close to beating the Springboks in Johannesburg but his night took a turn for the worse when he was subjected to what is being described as a "vicious and cowardly attack".

Spencer was drinking with fellow World XV team-mates - including Blues utility player Isa Nacewa - at a popular downtown bar when a drunk patron smashed a glass into his face.

It is understood that Spencer and his team-mates had not been drinking heavily, nor had there been any incident in the bar prior to the attack. Because there was no provocation, witnesses believe the assault was pre-meditated.

Spencer received several stitches above his eye as a result of the attack but was fit enough to play for the World XV against Western Province in Cape Town yesterday morning.

"There was an incident but it doesn't warrant any further comment," Spencer's lawyer David Jones said.

A witness said Spencer and his team-mates were standing chatting when the former All Black was tapped on the shoulder from behind. As Spencer turned around a glass was mashed into his face.

The assailant took off before anybody could catch him. He fled the club but was not chased as those who saw what had happened stayed with Spencer to ensure that he was alright.

The police were not called but Spencer did leave the bar immediately to seek attention for his injuries.

While Spencer was not badly hurt, he was understandably shaken and the assault has marred what has been an excellent 12 months for the 30-year-old.

Since leaving the Blues in July last year to play for Northampton in England, Spencer has enjoyed a new lease of life.

He opted to head overseas after becoming disillusioned at being dropped from both the Blues and All Black sides.

After a slow start to his Northampton career, he hit a rich vein of form and was nominated for the players' player of the season award.

His reward for such a fine season was a place in the World XV alongside other former All Blacks Justin Marshall, Bruce Reihana and Mark Robinson.