A prominent New Zealand National Rugby League (NRL) player has been charged by Australian authorities for alleged sports betting and drugs charges.
According to reports, South Sydney Rabbitohs forward Brandon Smith is set to appear in court on September 18th.
The hooker (a position in rugby) is alleged to have supplied dangerous drugs and used or disclosed inside information for betting.
The Queensland police indicate that the investigation is ongoing.
Smith had previously been questioned by authorities but later released without charge, indicating that the athlete had been “cooperative”.
Smith’s club indicated that they are aware of the allegations and have informed the NRL’s Integrity Unit.
Authorities did not provide further details into the type of betting information Smith may have provided, or what potential gains could have been realized due to the disclosure.
Reports indicate that maximum charges could carry a penalty of up to 15 years.
