NRL investigating Cronulla star Josh Dugan’s alleged Covid-19 breach

The NRL integrity unit is investigating another potential Covid-19 restrictions breach involving Cronulla Sharks star Josh Dugan.

Josh Dugan was fined earlier in the year for a Covid-19 breach.

The NRL integrity unit is investigating a Covid-19 breach allegedly involving Cronulla Sharks star Josh Dugan.

As revealed by The Daily Telegraph’s Phil Rothfield, a police reports claims officers from the Chifley Police District pulled over two men late on Friday evening while patrolling Lithgow. Both men were approximately 150km from their homes.

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“The men allegedly weren’t wearing masks and checks revealed they were from Gymea and Alexandria,” a police spokesman said.

“The driver allegedly told police they were moving to the area and were going to feed animals, however later admitted they were heading to a friend’s house for the weekend.

“They were directed to return home. About 40 minutes later, officers detected the same vehicle travelling away from Sydney towards Yetholme. The men were stopped and again directed to return to their homes. Charges are expected to be laid.”

The Cronulla Sharks contacted the NRL’s integrity unit after being made aware of the incident on Saturday morning, according to the report.

An NRL spokesperson confirmed to news.com.au that the NRL is aware of the matter and is liaising with police and the club.

Josh Dugan of the Sharks.

The NRL had previously fined Dugan $25,000 two months ago after he breached Covid-19 protocols in a separate incident.

The 31-year-old was spotted at a Potts Point restaurant with friends after the NRL had imposed Level 3 biosecurity protocols, which required players to remain at home unless training, playing or conducting essential household requirements.

“I just want to say I’m sorry, it was an error in judgment,’’ Dugan told NewsCorp at the time.

“It’s been a difficult period for me personally and I’m putting my hand up on this one.

“I’ll isolate and do everything that is asked of me.”

Dugan remained in Sydney while the rest of the Cronulla squad relocated to Queensland last month.

“Our biosecurity protocols are the most important part of the competition, they are our licence to continue playing during the pandemic. All clubs and players have a responsibility to ensure they comply with the rules to keep themselves and the community safe,” NRL boss Andrew Abdo said in June.

Dugan has played 215 first-grade games since making his NRL debut in 2009. He has represented Australia in 12 Test matches and played 12 State of Origin games for the New South Wales Blues.

Dugan is off contract with Cronulla at the end of the season.