Advertisement

Sharks drop Barba after positive cocaine test

Ben Barba has reportedly tested positive to cocaine use.

Ben Barba has reportedly tested positive to cocaine use. Photo: Getty

Ben Barba has been released from his playing contract by NRL premiers Cronulla in the wake of testing positive to cocaine in the days after the Sharks’ grand final triumph.

The Sharks released a statement on Tuesday saying fullback Barba would be taking time away from the game to address “some significant personal issues”.

The club said the former Dally M Medal winner had on Monday night left to attend an intensive overseas rehabilitation program.

“I know and accept I need to take some time away from the game to deal with some personal issues,” Barba said in a statement.

“I am accountable for myself and my actions and if I don’t address them now I will certainly ruin my career and more importantly my life and that of my family.

“I hope to return to the game at some stage and am very grateful for the support of the Cronulla Sharks and I hope that one day I can again play beside this terrific bunch of guys.”

Added club CEO Lyall Gorman: “This is an incredibly difficult situation for Ben, his family and our club and all involved with it.

“While Ben will be a major loss to our football club, the far greater priority is for him to focus on his long term future away from football and we will continue to support Ben throughout that process in any way we can.”

Barba, who has had stints with the Bulldogs and Broncos, also spent time in rehab in 2013 to deal with anger issues and a gambling addiction.

 

Stay informed, daily
A FREE subscription to The New Daily arrives every morning and evening.
The New Daily is a trusted source of national news and information and is provided free for all Australians. Read our editorial charter
Copyright © 2024 The New Daily.
All rights reserved.