A survey of professional rugby players in Australia has revealed many feel their teammates have serious drinking and gambling problems.

Just over half those questioned thought that between one and ten players in their state squad had a serious problem with alcohol, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.

It also revealed that more than 57 per cent believed that between one and ten players had a serious gambling problem.

The survey, conducted by the Australian Rugby Union Players' (RUPA) Association, tabled the opinions of 84 Super 12 players including 27 Wallabies.

It was conducted in January last year and published in RUPA's recently released 2004 annual report.

The survey also found that players were concerned they had been pressured into playing important matches when not fit.

Only half those surveyed believed Test refereeing was satisfactory.

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