Josh Addo-Carr, a prominent winger for the Kangaroos, has been dismissed from the Canterbury Bulldogs NRL club immediately after testing positive for drugs in two roadside tests last month.
During a board meeting held on Thursday evening, Bulldogs chairman Adam Driussi announced the decision was reached with careful consideration, reflecting the seriousness with which the club views this situation. Driussi acknowledged Addo-Carr’s impact on the club over the past three seasons, highlighting the memorable moments he provided for fans and members. Nevertheless, he emphasized that the club must maintain a culture rooted in clear standards and values.
The NRL Integrity Unit has concluded its investigation and imposed a four-match suspension on Addo-Carr; however, the Bulldog’s board deemed the combination of the failed drug tests and the player’s subsequent lack of transparency as significant breaches of both his contractual obligations and the club’s standards. The chairman reiterated the club’s commitment to player welfare, stating that while they support their players in tough times, this support must come with complete trust and transparency.
In more positive news from the league, Broncos star fullback Reece Walsh has secured a four-year contract extension, keeping him with the team until the end of the 2029 season. Additionally, former Chiefs hooker Tyrone Thompson will take on a new challenge, playing alongside his twin brother Leo at the Knights in the upcoming season after having a standout career with the All Blacks XV and Māori All Blacks in 2022.
While the news surrounding Addo-Carr is certainly disappointing for fans and the club alike, it serves as an important reminder of the responsibilities athletes have in upholding the values of their teams. There is hope that both Addo-Carr and the Bulldogs will move forward positively, learning and growing from this experience.
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