The South Sydney Rabbitohs hooker Brandon Smith has been charged with supplying dangerous drugs and using inside knowledge for betting. Queensland Police confirmed the charges on Monday, following an earlier questioning of the player at Coolangatta Airport ahead of a match on 10 August. Smith was released without charge at the time but later issued a summons on 20 August.
The 29-year-old is scheduled to appear at Southport Magistrates Court on 18 September. Police stated that investigations by the Organised Crime Gangs Group, Taskforce Maxima, are ongoing. South Sydney said they were aware of the allegations and have informed the NRL integrity unit, but are making no further comment due to the police investigation.
Smith, a New Zealand Test player, won the NRL premiership with Melbourne in 2020 and was named Dally M Hooker of the Year in 2021. He made a mid-season switch from the Sydney Roosters to Souths this year but has been limited to four games due to injury. He is contracted until the end of 2027.
