Rabbitohs star Brandon Smith has been charged with one count of supplying dangerous drugs and another of using or disclosing inside knowledge for betting. Despite these serious allegations, the South Sydney Rabbitohs have decided not to stand him down for their final game of the season, as reported by News Corp.
Smith was questioned by Queensland police upon his arrival on the Gold Coast ahead of South Sydney’s Round 23 clash but was released without being formally charged at that time. The charges, however, were later confirmed as part of a broader investigation, according to CODE Sports.
Charges and Club’s Response
The National Rugby League (NRL) integrity unit has been informed of the charges against Smith, yet they do not meet the NRL’s automatic no-fault stand-down policy. News Corp conveyed the Rabbitohs’ firm stance that there is “no way” they would voluntarily stand Smith down from their upcoming match against the Roosters.
While the NRL retains the authority to make an independent decision regarding Smith’s participation, the Rabbitohs have remained supportive of their player. A club statement read, “The South Sydney Rabbitohs are aware of allegations made by Queensland Police against player Brandon Smith. The Club has informed the NRL Integrity Unit about the allegations. As this matter is part of a Queensland Police investigation, the Rabbitohs will be making no further comment at this stage.”
Details of the Investigation
The charges against Smith stem from an ongoing investigation by detectives from the Organised Crime Gangs Group, Taskforce Maxima, and the South Eastern Region. A police spokesperson confirmed,
“A 29-year-old man has been issued with a Summons by Queensland Police on August 20 for supplying dangerous drugs and using or disclosing inside knowledge for betting. The man is expected to appear in the Southport Magistrates Court on 18 September.”
Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy elaborated on the situation, stating, “We chatted to him about a number of things and then he was able to go on and play football. Brandon was very co-operative with us and he was able to go on and play a good game of football from what I saw.”
Implications for the NRL and Smith
This incident raises questions about the NRL’s policies and the discretion clubs have when dealing with legal issues involving players. The charges against Smith, while serious, do not automatically trigger the league’s no-fault stand-down rule, which is designed to protect the integrity of the game while ensuring due process for players.
Smith, who made a mid-season transfer from the Roosters to the Rabbitohs, now faces a critical period in his career. The outcome of the legal proceedings could significantly impact his future in the NRL. The Rabbitohs’ decision to keep him on the roster for the final game underscores the complexities clubs face in balancing legal issues with team dynamics and performance.
Looking Ahead
As Smith prepares to appear in the Southport Magistrates Court on September 18, the NRL and the Rabbitohs will closely monitor the situation. The league’s decision on whether to intervene could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.
Meanwhile, the Rabbitohs’ choice to stand by Smith highlights the ongoing debate within sports organizations about the appropriate response to legal allegations against athletes. As the investigation unfolds, the broader implications for the NRL’s policies and Smith’s career remain to be seen.
