MELBOURNE — Carlton player Lachie Cowan has received a suspension and a fine from the Australian Football League (AFL) following an investigation into illicit substance use.
The penalty stems from an incident involving illicit drug use at a house party. In response to the case, the league issued a broader warning to players regarding upcoming hair testing for drugs.
The disciplinary action and subsequent testing warnings have drawn sharp criticism from commentators and stakeholders. Critics slammed the ban as a counterproductive measure that risks discouraging players from seeking necessary medical help and support for substance use issues.