John Mitchell has returned as coach of the Lions’ Currie Cup team after being cleared of misconduct charges.

In a brief statement on Friday, the Lions said Mitchell – a former All Blacks coach and player – will rejoin the Johannesburg-based team next week.

The Lions wouldn’t give any further comment on their disciplinary hearing against Mitchell, who was suspended in June after Super Rugby players complained of being subjected to abusive language and being forced to train and play with injuries.

Mitchell denied the accusations and his lawyer, Brian Patterson, told The Associated Press he had been cleared of all charges. Patterson said Mitchell was due to return to work on Friday.

The Lions were relegated and stripped of their Super Rugby status after finishing bottom last season.