An NRL star had consumed up to 20 alcoholic drinks before touching a woman’s breasts without her consent at a popular Sydney hotel, saying he is “deeply sorry” for his actions.

In Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday, Parramatta Eels star Dylan Brown pleaded guilty to two counts of touching a woman’s breasts without her consent at the Golden Sheaf Hotel in Double Bay on June 3.

The NRL’s no-fault stand down rule no longer applies but he has yet to be officially cleared to return.

“Additionally, I want to apologise to everyone connected to the club for the negative impact that this incident has caused, and I am committed to learning from this experience.”

Sarantinos added: “Our club has a strong commitment to respectful behaviour towards women, and the behaviour that was outlined in court today is unacceptable and against the expectations we have at our club. Dylan has taken full responsibility for his actions and has acknowledged the impact this has had on the person involved, for which he is genuinely remorseful. The club will continue to support Dylan and work with him as he learns from this experience. We will now work with the NRL Integrity Unit on the next steps in finalising the matter.”

Once the news was made public, the NRL exercised their discretion under their “no fault” stand-down policy to sideline Brown.

“The Parramatta Eels have been informed by the NRL that Dylan Brown has been stood down from team selection as part of the NRL’s no fault stand down policy regarding the (alleged) incident this past weekend,” the club said in a statement at the time.

“Dylan will not be eligible for selection until he receives clearance from the NRL.

“Out of respect for the legal process now under way, the club will not be making any further comment at this time.”

The NRL is expected to make a decision on Brown’s playing future in the next few days.