NRL investigating Valentine Holmes over white powder photo, North Queensland Cowboys, Integrity Unit
Valentine Holmes will reportedly deny taking an illegal drug at a meeting with the NRL and Cowboys after a photo emerged over the weekend of him holding a bag of white powder.
According to the Courier Mail, Holmes is being asked to “explain” about the photo, with both the Cowboys and the NRL conducting their own investigations.
Holmes uploaded the image to his own social media account. He is seen biting on the unopened small bag while holding a drink. It has since been deleted from his Instagram story but is now being shared widely.
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The Cowboys released a statement confirming they were aware of the photo and would assist the Integrity Unit in its investigation.
“The North Queensland Cowboys are aware that a Cowboys player posted a photo on social media this morning,” the statement said.
“The club is conducting an investigation and supporting the NRL Integrity Unit.
“The Cowboys will have no further comment until the investigation is complete.”
According to the Courier Mail, Holmes will insist it was just a joke and that he has not used cocaine or any other illegal substances.
“Holmes told those close to him that the picture was a childish prank gone wrong. He will reiterate that opinion to Cowboys hierarchy and NRL integrity unit bosses on Monday, insisting he was not involved in any drug use,” the Courier Mail reported.
A formal hearing into the incident will be held on Monday at 11 a.m. via Zoom.
https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/nrl-2023-nrl-investigate-valentine-holmes-over-white-powder-photo-north-queensland-cowboys-integrity-unit/news-story/972cc24234c063788a4e1d1ab8598562 NRL investigating Valentine Holmes over white powder photo, North Queensland Cowboys, Integrity Unit
