Cronulla Sharks star Braydon Trindall stood down after failed roadside booze, drugs tests

Braydon Trindall will not play this weekend and is now being investigated by the NRL integrity unit after the Sharks five-eighth failed initial roadside alcohol and illicit drugs tests early on Monday morning.

Trindall immediately reported the result of the tests to the club and will appear in court in May, with a secondary sample of the illicit drug test yet to be confirmed.

Daniel Atkinson is expected to start against Canberra on Sunday afternoon, with Trindall forming a nice combination with Nicho Hynes after the club put their faith in him and allowed Matt Moylan to go to the Super League.

Trindall scored two tries in the big win over North Queensland and claimed the Preston Campbell Medal as the best player in the All Stars game earlier in the year.

“The club has since followed the appropriate protocols within the player’s contract and CBA and continues to work with the NRL integrity unit, with the club, player and his management agreeing it is in Braydon’s best interest to not participate in games or to train for the short term, most importantly to attend to his welfare and health issues,” a Sharks statement read.

“Trindall reported the result of the roadside tests immediately to Sharks management, who in turn informed the NRL integrity unit.

“The matter has been referred for a court appearance in May where Trindall will face the allegations and charges levelled against him, noting that a secondary sample of the illicit drug test is yet to be confirmed.

“The Sharks treat these issues extremely seriously, however they are providing Trindall with the necessary welfare support.

“Until more information is available the club will make no further comment.”