NRL demands answer from ASADA in Bronson Xerri case

Andrew Abdo says his door is open to Bronson Xerri and will ask ASADA for a please explain over the timing of their drug revelation.

Cronulla CEO Dino Mezzatesta after addressing the media outside Shark Park

Acting NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo says his door is open to Bronson Xerri and has revealed the game will ask the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority for a please explain over their decision to pass on the Cronulla star’s failed drug test only 48 hours before the season was due to recommence.

Xerri and his club Cronulla were still digesting the shock news of his failed drug test and provisional suspension on Wednesday, the young centre releasing a statement through his manager David Riolo in which he said he was devastated at the result.

At the same time, there was widespread anger and disappointment at the way ASADA had hijacked the lead-up to a game that has taken on monumental importance in the wake of COVID-19.

The frustration was exacerbated given it was not the first time the anti-doping agency had done so – they announced James Segeyaro’s failed test only days before last year’s grand final.

Abdo was as annoyed as anybody and outlined plans to seek an explanation from ASADA over the delay in informing the game and Xerri of the news – he was tested in November last year.

“It is obviously disappointing that announcement on something that took place late last year is only happening now,” Abdo said.

“There would be I imagine a series of protocols that happen on the ASADA side. We will certainly be reaching out to them to understand the process, why it took so long and how we can make sure the process runs through at a more efficient pace moving forward.”

The father of Cronulla player Bronson Xerri arrives at the family home. Picture: Jeremy Piper

Asked whether he would be willing to meet Xerri – Abdo’s predecessor Todd Greenberg took great pride in his relationship with the players – the chief executive said: “I do have and value the relationship with the players.

“In this role, understanding and being close to what is happening with all stakeholders is important. We are always open to having a conversation with players on any issues they are having.

“Ultimately Bronson still has the right to have his B sample tested. We have 800 players and officials that form part of our biosecurity bubble and they have made tremendous sacrifices over the past couple of weeks.

“From time to time, people are human and make mistakes.”

Xerri is expected to have his B sample tested in coming weeks and should that also come back positive, he is staring down the barrel of a four-year ban unless he can show that his use of the banned substance was unintentional.

“I’m devastated but I’m bound by the system so there is not much more I can say at this stage,” Xerri said.

“There is a process in place that I am required to follow. I’m shattered I’m not playing with the boys this weekend and I wish them all the best for Saturday.”

The Sharks must somehow pick up the pieces as they digest the loss of one of their strike players on the eve of the game’s return.

The news was another setback for a club that has slowly clawed its way back from the devastating impact of the peptide scandal a few years back.

Bronson Xerri is expected to have his B sample tested in coming weeks

Even the Sharks’ most ardent supporters were struggling with the news.

“That process is still ongoing with ASADA so I will let that play out but he was a very talented young player, there is no doubt about that,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison, a rabid Sharks supporter, told the Today show.

“He was as quick as lightning and this is very disappointing. I feel for the players and the club but there is no tolerance fo drugs in sport. ASADA should do their job and follow that through.

“There are no exceptions and it would appear – and I hope it’s not the case – but it would appear that he has made some very poor decisions.”

Only hours after the prime minister spoke of his disappointment, Sharks chief executive Dino Mezzatesta addressed the media and questioned the ASADA process.

“That’s a matter really for the NRL to take up with ASADA, but it does seem like a long process,” he said.

“Our hope is that the process isn’t anywhere near as long to conclude. It could be more damaging not only for the individual and club, but the code itself.

“We should be celebrating the return to the game and that’s what we should be focusing and concentrating on. That’s why we’d hope there’s an expedient outcome for all concerned.”

Mezzatesta revealed he had spoken to ARL Commission chair Peter V’landys and the club had support from the very highest levels of Rugby League Central.

“It feels like it was the other day, that grand final when the Sharks won and Up, Up Cronulla was playing,” Abdo said.

“They have a very loyal fan following. They have been through a lot as a club and they are incredibly resilient.”