Hurley took a taxi outside a South Melbourne nightclub about 5.30 a.m. and went to a food outlet on Hoddle Street. When the driver pursued him asking for fare, Hurley allegedly kicked him in the groin and punched him.

Paul Hamilton, general manager of operations at Essendon Football Club, confirmed that 'Hurley had been involved in an incident overnight'.

He said Hurley was questioned by police at the Fitzroy police station for his brawl with the taxi driver. He was, however, released later.

The footballer was not charged with any offence, Hamilton said.

Meanwhile, a Victoria Police spokeswoman said the alleged attack was over a fare dispute and Hurley was likely to be charged for assault related offences.

Between June and August, around 30 Indian students were attacked in various cities in Australia.