Cursed Suns in cocaine scandal

GOLD Coast is engulfed in another drug scandal with Brayden Crossley facing a lengthy ban after returning a positive match-day test for cocaine.

Cocaine detected on match day is considered performance-enhancing and carries a maximum four-year ban.

The Australian Sports AntiDoping Authority is conducting an investigation.

The Suns’ forward is waiting for the return of a B sample after a urine test before the May 25 NEAFL game against the Swans detected traces of a cocaine metabolite, a banned substance under the World Anti-Doping Authority code.

It is understood he intends to vigorously defend himself and will deny knowingly ingesting a banned substance.

The Gold Coaster played 10 games in his debut season in 2018 but has been unable to break into the senior side this year. He has been absent from the club on a provisional ban since June 29 when he was told of his positive test.

In a statement, Gold Coast said: “The club supports the role of ASADA and will fully co-operate during this process.

“We are continuing to provide Brayden with wellbeing support and want to stress that it would be inappropriate to pre-empt the outcome of the matter at this time.

“Brayden has sought independent legal advice to assist him going forward.

“The club’s public commentary on this issue is governed by strict protocols, and as such under the Australian Football Anti-Doping Code we are unable to provide any further commentary while the process unfolds.’’

Gold Coast has endured a chequered history with drugs.

High-profile foundation player and ex-NRL star Karmichael Hunt was caught up in a Queensland Crime and Corruption Commission investigation into a cocaine trafficking ring. And former No.2 draft pick Harley Bennell also parted ways with the club after a series of off-field incidents that included being photographed with a line of white powder.