Lawyers for Stephen Milne have accused an ex-detective of being prejudiced in his investigation of rape claims against the former AFL player.
Former detective Scott Gladman denies the claims.
Milne, 33, has been charged with four counts of rape over an alleged incident at the Highett home of his former St Kilda teammate Leigh Montagna.
Despite the alleged incident occurring in March 2004, charges were only laid in June after a police review, and chief commissioner Ken Lay has said the initial investigation was inadequate.
At Milne's committal hearing on Thursday, defence barrister Philip Dunn QC said Mr Gladman was a prejudiced and mean-minded investigator.
Mr Dunn told Melbourne Magistrates Court Mr Gladman had wanted to be a "white knight" for the alleged victim.
Mr Gladman rejected that, and any claims of bias.
"Theatre, pure theatre; a complete fantasy," Mr Gladman replied via video link from Panama.
"I resent being called a white knight."
Mr Dunn accused Mr Gladman of ignoring key evidence that tended to exonerate Milne, which Mr Gladman also rejected.
"Absolute and total rubbish," Mr Gladman replied.
He denied making up an allegation that Milne had referred to "footy sluts" as he was being fingerprinted.
Mr Gladman said there was an incorrect perception that he was out to get Milne and had always believed he was guilty.
The hearing has previously been told Milne repeatedly tried to have sex with the woman, despite her objections, and that she initially thought he was Mr Montagna.
The hearing continues.
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