Bird convicted of recklessly wounding girlfriend

Australia rugby league international Greg Bird has been convicted of recklessly wounding his girlfriend and of lying to police.

The 25-year-old Bird, who now plays for the France-based Super League club Catalans, denied hitting Katie Milligan in the face with a glass during an argument in their Sydney apartment last August.

Sydney Downing Centre Local Court Magistrate Roger Clisdell on Tuesday found Bird guilty on charges of reckless wounding and of making a false accusation to police - he initially blamed another man for Milligan's injuries.

Bird was released on bail until a sentencing hearing in the same court starting 22 June.

Police were called when Milligan was treated in hospital for injuries caused by the glass.

Milligan has continued a relationship with Bird. She did not give evidence in court and did not make a formal complaint to police.

Bird, a versatile lock or five-eighth who played two test matches for Australia and four State-of-Origin matches for New South Wales, was released from his contract with NRL club Cronulla after he was charged by police. He was denied a visa to play for English club Bradford before signing with Catalans Dragons.