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Following being given a notice to appear in court around allegations of supplying cocaine, Reds back Karmichael Hunt has been rubbed out of this week’s fixture against the Highlanders.
Hunt also missed the Reds’ win over the Force, after the Reds deemed it was in the best interests of the player he miss the game.
In this instance, the Reds believe that it is best for Hunt’s welfare that he remain off the playing field and out of the spotlight until the matter is sorted.
Queensland Rugby Union CEO Jim Carmichael was adamant the Reds would stand by its player.
“Notwithstanding our responsibilities to our Members, fans and wider Rugby stakeholders – and although Karmichael was not contracted to Rugby during the period in question – the QRU strongly believes it has a duty of care to its employees. As such, we will continue to provide Karmichael with the required organisational support.”
Carmichael also elaborated on the reasons for Hunt missing the game this weekend.
“Following extensive consultation with Karmichael over the weekend, we have determined that it continues to be best for Karmichael’s welfare that he is not available for selection this Friday.
“As this highly complicated matter is due before the courts and is part of a wider and ongoing investigation by the Queensland Crime and Corruption Commission, we will continue not to prejudice the player’s legal or contractual rights and we will apply the principles of natural justice.
“The playing group is aware of the organisation’s position and is entirely focused on preparing for an important Super Rugby game against the Highlanders in Dunedin this Friday, following our win over the Western Force on Saturday.”
Hunt is due to face court on March 5.
The whole statement from the Queensland Rugby Union reads as follows:
Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) today further confirms its position in relation to Karmichael Hunt.
As QRU advised on Friday 20 February, Karmichael has been served with a Notice to Appear in Court. He is expected in Southport Magistrates Court on 5 March 2015.
QRU CEO Jim Carmichael said: “Following extensive consultation with Karmichael over the weekend, we have determined that it continues to be best for Karmichael’s welfare that he is not available for selection this Friday. As this highly complicated matter is due before the courts and is part of a wider and ongoing investigation by the Queensland Crime and Corruption Commission, we will continue not to prejudice the player’s legal or contractual rights and we will apply the principles of natural justice.
“Notwithstanding our responsibilities to our Members, fans and wider Rugby stakeholders – and although Karmichael was not contracted to Rugby during the period in question – the QRU strongly believes it has a duty of care to its employees. As such, we will continue to provide Karmichael with the required organisational support.
“The playing group is aware of the organisation’s position and is entirely focused on preparing for an important Super Rugby game against the Highlanders in Dunedin this Friday, following our win over the Western Force on Saturday.”
The QRU, Australian Rugby Union and the Rugby Union Players’ Association are working closely in relation to this matter
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