NRL: Kangaroos winger Josh Addo-Carr sacked after drug use
by RNZ Sport · RNZKangaroos winger Josh Addo-Carr has been sacked by NRL club the Canterbury Bulldogs with immediate effect after returning two positive readings to roadside drugs tests last month.
Addo-Carr fronted the club's board on Thursday night and in a statement issued after the meeting, Bulldogs chairman Adam Driussi said the decision was not made lightly and followed careful consideration by the board.
"Josh has been a significant part of our club over the past three seasons. During this time, he has provided many memorable moments for our members and fans.
"We understand Josh's popularity with our passionate supporter base, and we share their disappointment that his time with the club has ended this way.
"However, this season has demonstrated the importance of building a culture based on clear standards and values.
"While the NRL Integrity Unit has completed its investigation and imposed a four-match suspension, the club views the combination of the failed drug test and subsequent lack of transparency as serious breaches of Josh's contractual obligations and our club's standards.
"Supporting our players remains a fundamental priority for our club, with comprehensive welfare programs that go well beyond just football.
"While we will always stand by our players through difficult times, we can only do this effectively when there is complete trust and transparency.
"We wish Josh and his family well for the future. Our welfare team remains available to Josh and his family during this transition."
Meanwhile, star fullback Reece Walsh has signed a four-year contract extension with the Broncos until the end of the 2029 season.
And former Chiefs hooker Tyrone Thompson has switched codes to play alongside his twin brother Leo at the Knights next season.
Thompson represented the All Blacks XV and Māori All Blacks in 2022.