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The NRL has stood down North Queensland Cowboy James Tamou for two games after he was charged with being more than four times over the legal limit to drive, and driving unlicensed.
Tamou has received a two match suspension with a $20,000 fine due to the seriousness of the charge which includes NRL and representative games.
The two match ban was confirmed later today, after discussions between the Cowboys and the NRL’s integrity unit.
This means that the ban will include State of Origin Game 2, in Brisbane. With Origin appearance fees at $30,000 per game, the night of drink will cost Tamou at least $50,000.
The Australian Test and NSW Blues prop was charged by police after recording an alcohol concentration of 0.197 when he was pulled over in the early hours of Monday morning in the suburb of North Ward.
Tamou will appear in Townsville Magistrates Court on July 2 on charges of unlicensed driving and driving under the influence of alcohol, and has indicated he will plead guilty.
Full statement from the NRL:
“James Tamou has been fined $20,000, suspended for the Cowboys’ next NRL match and ruled ineligible for selection for State of Origin Game II.
The penalties, which also include forgoing any potential Origin match payment, come after Tamou was arrested and charged for high range drink driving and driving without a licence.
NRL Chief Executive, Mr Dave Smith, said the facts were not in dispute and the penalties reflect the seriousness of the offences.
“This is a high level, high risk, high penalty situation,” Mr Smith said today.
“Drink driving puts lives at risk. Our players are well educated regarding alcohol management and there is no excuse for such behaviour.
“Our Integrity Unit has reviewed the situation, we have consulted with the Cowboys and we have sent a clear message of what is expected of our players.”
The NRL will also work with the Cowboys and Tamou to implement additional education and welfare programs, including responsible driver education.”
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