Former All Black Piri Weepu has admitted a drink-driving charge, and apologised to friends and family via social media.
Weepu, who appeared 73 times for the national side and most recently in 2013, took the unusual step of confessing his crime on Instagram on Tuesday morning, hours before heading to court to formally enter his plea.
"On July 15, I was charged with excess breath alcohol while driving," he said. "I am due to appear in court this morning in relation to this, at which time I will plead guilty.
"I made an error in judgement and put my hand up 100 percent and admit it was really bad call on my part. I'm extremely embarrassed and sory for any impact this may have on my friends and family, and the wider community.
"Thank you to those who have supported me so far in this matter. I'll be focussing hard on getting back on track."
Weepu was a hero of the All Blacks success at the 2011 Rugby World Cup tournament, where the halfback took up goal-kicking duties during an injury crisis at first-five.
He retired from rugby last year, after turning out for Wairarapa Bush during the 2017 Heartland Championship.
Newshub.