The AFL has issued Carlton with a ‘please explain’ after two of its players were hospitalised over the weekend.
Lachie Cowan and Will Hayward were taken to hospital in separate incidents following a party at the latter’s house.
It is alleged illicit drugs were used at the party, though Carlton is refusing to comment on whether the pair who were hospitalised used illicit drugs.
The club will conduct an internal investigation into the incident including questioning the players involved, report Channel 7.
Carlton will then pass on their findings to the AFL.
The league will then decide whether to take action – and could sanction the players involved if illicit drug use is admitted or discovered.
However, any potential punishment will not fall under the AFL’s new illicit substances regime, which is yet to be implemented after being announced in March.
The new system, which will be introduced just before the 2027 season, is set to crack down on the use of illicit substances.
Improved hair testing will reveal if a player has taken drugs in the previous three months.
But since testing will not start until the beginning of March, players could effectively have a free pass to take drugs until the end of November.
The AFL’s old policy relies on urine testing, which can only detect illicit substances that have been used up to three days before the time of the test.
Once the new system is implemented players who pass positive tests could face suspension.
They will also be required to participate in a behavioural change education program, while ongoing clinical assessments and a management plan will be put in place if a player produces a second consecutive positive test.
Carlton confirmed its players were discharged from hospital with their wellbeing being prioritised.
“The Carlton Football Club can confirm that Lachie Cowan and Will Hayward were admitted to hospital under separate circumstances on Sunday morning,” a statement read.
“Cowan received medical treatment and underwent observation, before being discharged a short time later.
“Will Hayward experienced a minor cut to the head after a fall, and admitted himself to hospital where he received stitches before being discharged.
“The Club has been in regular contact with both players, with priority for their wellbeing and both players have now received the necessary care relating to their separate circumstances.”
News.com.au has contacted the AFL for comment.
Originally published as AFL issue Carlton a ‘please explain’ as potential punishment loophole emerges