Trent Elkin has opted to appeal against his two-year ban by the NRL for his role in Cronulla’s controversial supplements program during the 2011 season.

The Sharks’ former strength and conditioning coach, and club head coach Shane Flanagan, were sanctioned by NRL chief Dave Smith in December following an investigation by the code into governance at the club in that season, which has formed part of the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) probe.

Flanagan was banned for a year with Elkin’s registration cancelled for two years and the club fined a million dollars.

Former NSW assistant coach Flanagan opted against taking his case to the NRL Appeals Committee but this is the route being taken by Elkin.

The Appeals Committee comprises Ian Callinan QC, a former Justice of the High Court of Australia, former Penrith and St George Illawarra star Luke Priddis and former NSW Minister for Sport, Mike Cleary.

The NRL said in a statement the appeal has been allowed on the sole ground of hearing Elkin’s contention that the cancellation of his registration was manifestly excessive.