Newcastle Knights second-rower Jermaine McEwen has been referred to the NRL integrity unit following a driving charge that will see him appear in court later this month. The 21-year-old has been charged by police with low-range drink driving and driving with a suspended licence, as reported by Nine Newspapers.
The Australian Associated Press has confirmed that the incident was reported to the NRL integrity unit by the Knights after McEwen informed club officials. The club issued a statement on Wednesday afternoon acknowledging the matter, stating: "A thorough process continues to be undertaken by all parties required. Until due process is completed, the Newcastle Knights will not make any further comment."
Despite the off-field issue, McEwen has been named in the Knights' squad to face Melbourne at AAMI Park on Friday night. The back-rower has been a key figure for Newcastle this season, playing every minute of the last 12 consecutive matches except for 21 minutes. His consistent performances have helped propel the Knights to fourth place on the NRL ladder.
McEwen's rise through the club's pathways has been remarkable. The 2023 SG Ball player of the year was rewarded with a contract extension last month, tying him to the Knights until the end of 2028. At the time of the extension, coach Justin Holbrook praised McEwen, saying: "Jermaine continues to exceed our expectations this year."
The driving charge marks a setback for the promising forward, who has played 28 NRL games and established himself as an 80-minute player under Holbrook's guidance. The NRL integrity unit will now conduct its own investigation, which could result in sanctions depending on the outcome of the court proceedings.
