Wallabies hooker Tolu Latu could face a maximum penalty of 9 months in prison

Wallabies hooker Tolu Latu has pleaded guilty to drink driving without a valid licence two days before a vital clash between his NSW Waratahs team and the Queensland Reds.

Latu, who has played 12 Tests for the Wallabies, appeared in Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court on Thursday and admitted both offences, according to court documents.

The 26-year-old had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.135 and was driving on a suspended licence when he was nabbed behind the wheel of a Mitsubishi Outlander at Moore Park in Sydney about 4.30am on May 16.

Two days later, the 110-kilogram hooker played off the Waratahs bench as they defeated the Reds 40-32 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.

Rugby Australia and the NSW Rugby Union only found out about the incident on the day of the game after being contacted by a Sydney news organisation.

Latu, who was later stood down from playing pending the court outcome, took full responsibility for the incident days after it happened.

In a statement issued by NSWRU he apologised to teammates and the rugby community.

“I’m disappointed with my actions because I recognise the seriousness of this situation,” he said at the time.

Latu is due to be sentenced on June 14.

If convicted for the mid-range drink driving offence, Latu faces a maximum penalty of nine months in prison, a fine of $2220 and a lengthy licence suspension.