New Zealand Captain Stands Down Amid Cocaine Allegations

Jesse Bromwich has stood down as New Zealand Rugby League captain following allegations he took cocaine.

It was alleged in court that the Melbourne Storm prop and fellow Kiwi forward Kevin Proctor bought the drug after Friday’s defeat by Australia. Proctor said he had “too much to drink” and “although I can’t remember exactly what happened, I don’t deny it”.

New Zealand Rugby League has revealed that both will not be considered for this year’s World Cup due to their involvement in the alleged incident. Kiwis coach David Kidwell expressed his disappointment and said there was no trust left. Kidwell said this was solely his decision and he was backed by the NZRL.

“We have values to uphold, they have broken my trust, their team mates’ trust and the trust of the New Zealand public,” he said.

“In our Te Iwi Kiwi house no-one is bigger than the team. Now we move forward and focus on the Rugby League World Cup.”

In a statement via the Storm, Bromwich said he would step down from the Kiwis and Storm leadership groups, be sidelined for two NRL matches, donate his test fee to charity and undergo counselling.

“I understand I am a role model to the young players and the poor choices I made do not reflect my personal values.” Bromwich said

“I regret making the choice of staying out with my team-mates until the early hours of Saturday morning, as well as consuming an excessive amount of alcohol.

“I take full responsibility for the poor choices I made, I am devastated and my actions were out of character.”

While both players were named in court, neither has been charged with an offence.

[Stuff.co.nz]