Cronulla Sharks playmaker Braydon Trindall has been stood down for an undisclosed period by the club after failing initial roadside alcohol and illicit drug tests on Monday morning. The incident occurred hours after Cronulla’s dominant 42-6 victory over North Queensland at Shark Park on Sunday afternoon.
Trindall, 24, was pulled over by NSW police at 9:45 a.m. on Monday and breathalyzed twice above the legal blood alcohol limit of 0.125, resulting in a charge of mid-range drink driving. He also tested positive for an illicit substance, which is alleged to be cocaine, and was found to be driving with a suspended license. The five-eighth reported the results of the roadside tests immediately to Sharks management, who then informed the NRL integrity unit.
The club has since confirmed that Trindall will not train or play while the incident is being dealt with. A statement released by the Sharks emphasized that the club’s priority is Trindall’s welfare and health issues.
Trindall is awaiting further test results from a more accurate oral fluid test before his court date on May 17 at Sutherland Local Court. Under the World Anti-Doping Code, cocaine is considered a ‘Substance of Abuse’ and is prohibited from being used in an in-competition environment, which includes the 24 hours leading up to a game day. However, a ban can only be levied at Australian athletes if they are tested by Sports Integrity Australia, which was not the case in this instance.
The NRL integrity unit has been informed of the incident and is liaising with the club. Trindall made his NRL debut with the Sharks in 2020 and has since scored 13 tries from 57 first-grade appearances. He was promoted to the Sharks’ starting halfback role this season after veteran Matt Moylan departed the club.
