Suspended.

Wallabies and Reds front-row James Slipper has been banned for two months after returning two positive tests for cocaine, between February and May this year.

Slipper received the minimum punishment of a two-month stand down and a AUS$27,500 fine, with Rugby AU CEO Raelene Castle saying a series of ‘significant personal issues’ had been taken into account when the tribunal made its decision.

This is not the first time cocaine use has rocked Australian Rugby. James O’Connor was caught in Paris not too long ago along with former All Black Ali Williams purchasing the class A drug, while another Wallaby in Karmichael Hunt has got into trouble for cocaine use on two occasions.

“We are extremely disappointed to be in this position today, with one of our most senior international players having submitted two positive tests for cocaine,” Castle told the Australian Rugby Union’s official website.

“We are fully aware that James is dealing with very significant personal issues and we have been working with him since February on these matters.

“We are ensuring that James is receiving full help and support including specialist medical treatment.

“James has expressed his sincere remorse for his actions and for placing himself, Rugby Australia and the Reds in this very difficult situation.”

Slipper took over the captaincy of the Queensland Reds in 2015, before stepping down from the role this season, and captained the Wallabies in 2015 against the USA. He has played 95 Super Rugby matches for the Reds and 86 Wallabies Tests, after making his debut in 2010.