Hardaker is given 14-month drug ban
Former Castleford full-back Zak Hardaker has been banned for 14 months for failing a drugs test after a mammoth afternoon drinking session ended with him taking cocaine.
The 26-year-old England international went out drinking with a friend, whom he knew had access to drugs, after a training session in the lead up to the 2017 Super League Grand Final.
Hardaker said he did not normally drink midweek but the day was an emotionally charged anniversary, although the exact circumstances were redacted in the UK Anti-doping Agency panel’s judgment.
Hardaker told the hearing he had six to seven pints of lager and then shared a litre of vodka and a litre of whisky.
As the pair continued drinking, Hardaker said he was offered cocaine by two other people, taking four to five lines. His failed test followed a Super 8s game against Leeds. Hardaker argued that he did not take the drug for professional gain and will not appeal against the punishment, which has been backdated to the date he tested positive in September 2017. The sanction, which is less than the expected two years, means Hardaker will be free to join a new club on Nov 7. Hardaker’s solicitors said in a statement: “Zak would never take any substance to achieve an unfair advantage.”
In Hardaker’s defence, it was argued that the case was similar to that of Jake Livermore, the former Hull City and England footballer who also took cocaine when upset on an anniversary. An independent Football Association commission decided it was a mitigating factor and did not ban him. However, the tribunal said: “We consider the Livermore decision should be treated as a decision on its own facts and not be followed.” Castleford sacked Hardaker in February. He is expected to join Wigan.