The Daily Telegraph reported Parramatta Eels forward, Kenny Edwards, 25, is facing a possible all-season suspension after submitting a urine sample on behalf of teammate Kaysa Pritchard on February 24.
The NRL integrity unit was informed of the incident by an Eels official and will decide an appropriate punishment for the pair in the coming weeks. Edwards could face a ban until November and Pritchard, 21, will only face a reprimand because it was an out-of-season test not administered by ASADA.
Currently both Pritchard and Edwards are out with pectoral and knee injuries respectively and have not yet had a chance to play this season. Pending developments in their investigation, they may not have a chance to.
“Both players are remorseful and will fully cooperate throughout the investigation,” said Head of Eels Communications, Josh Drayton
.@TheParraEels star facing nine-month suspension for switched urine test #NRL http://t.co/lhi6TZti0K pic.twitter.com/InyCGmeLx8
— The Daily Telegraph (@dailytelegraph) May 13, 2015
In related NRL news, retired Newcastle Knights player, Alex McKinnon is looking into taking legal action out against the Melbourne Storm and the NRL after his spinal incident last year. An illegal tackle made by Melbourne Storm player, Jordan McLean left the 23-year-old in a wheelchair. As McKinnon’s career ended prematurely, there could be a strong case against the Storm and the NRL if McKinnon decides to go ahead with legal action.
.@brisbanebroncos coach Wayne Bennett will talk to Alex McKinnon about suing @NRL and @storm http://t.co/QBxKL5zVci pic.twitter.com/u8uhJsl65b
— Courier Mail Sport (@cmail_sport) May 14, 2015
Whilst Sharks player, Michael Gordon, is caught between a rock and a hard place. With only this year left on his contract with Cronulla, the Eels want him for next season but need him now. Unwilling to release Gordon from his contract, the club released a diplomatic statement this week.
