Jarryd Hayne rape trial begins in Newcastle court, with ex-NRL player pleading not guilty

The rape trial of former National Rugby League player Jarryd Hayne has begun in Newcastle.

NSW police have alleged Mr Hayne had sex with a woman without her consent in Newcastle on NRL grand final night in 2018, and that he recklessly inflicted actual bodily harm during the alleged rape.

The prosecutors’ case centres on the allegation that Mr Hayne had sex with the woman, 28, while knowing that she wasn’t consenting.

They alleged he asked a cab driver to wait for him while he was in the woman’s house.

After the two counts were read out during arraignment in Newcastle District Court, Mr Hayne responded with “not guilty”.

Crown prosecutor Brian Costello told jurors Mr Hayne had been in Newcastle for a two-day bucks’ party for another NRL…