Eels tear up Williams’ contract
Parramatta have sacked Tony Williams after confirming the former NSW and Australian forward tested positive for a second time to an illicit substance.
As revealed by Fairfax Media earlier this month, Williams and team-mate Nathan Davis recorded second strikes for cocaine under the code’s illicit drugs policy.
While the contracts of both players are just weeks away from expiring – both are free agents from November 1 – the Eels tore up Williams’ deal, while a ‘‘substantial fine’’ was imposed on Davis.
As required under the drugs code, both players must serve a 12-game suspension before they are allowed to play again. In Williams’ case, it could effectively be a life ban given his injury
problems and off-field dramas.
‘‘Following a second contravention of the NRL Testing Policy for illicit and hazardous drugs, the Parramatta National Rugby League Club Pty Limited has terminated Tony Williams’ NRL playing contract, effective immediately,’’ the club said. ‘‘In addition, the NRL has suspended Tony Williams for 12 weeks in accordance with the policy.’’
The Eels threw Williams a lifeline at the start of the year, only for the forward to cop a twomatch ban for drink-driving in the pre-season.
He showed glimpses of his best in five NRL appearances before breaking down with another season-ending ACL injury.
The 29-year-old was hoping for another season at the blue and golds, but the latest indiscretion could be a career-ending one.
The twin drugs dramas continue a miserable season for a club that earned a third wooden spoon in the space of just seven years. The incidents raise further questions about the culture at Parramatta as officials conclude an independent review and seek to appoint a head of football.