Essendon have banned Michael Hurley for the first three rounds of the 2010 AFL Season after the club announced further sanctions from his much publicised “taxigate” incident.

Hurley, 19, was charged with recklessly injuring an Indian taxi driver in an alleged attack outside a Hungry Jacks restaurant in the early hours of September 26 2009. The charge went before the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday, but the hearing was adjourned until June 11.

The Bombers initially banned Hurley from participating in their 2010 NAB Cup campaign as punishment for his part in the incident, but announced further sanctions following Friday’s hearing.

In addition to the three-match ban, Hurley will complete an alcohol counselling course and will be involved in no less than 20 hours’ additional community service during the 2010 season.