Green Rockets player arrested in Japan
Former Australian rugby league international Blake Ferguson has been arrested by Japanese police after allegedly being caught in possession of illegal drugs.
According to local media, police were called to a restaurant in the Roppongi area of Tokyo on Thursday after 31-year-old Ferguson was involved in an altercation with another patron.
The winger, who left Parramatta at the end of the 2021 NRL season to try his hand in Japanese club rugby union, was then searched at Azabu police station and allegedly found with the drugs - reportedly cocaine.
The 31-year-old, who won a premiership with the Roosters in 2018, signed with NEC Green Rockets, where former Wallabies mentor Michael Cheika is coaching director.
The club's domestic season in the newly-renamed League One begins on January 8 against the Yokohama Canon Eagles.
But, following the arrest and given that drugs possession is viewed seriously in Japan, Ferguson's future in the 15 -man game is now in severe doubt.
The Green Rockets confirmed they were aware of Ferguson's arrest in a statement and said they were assisting police with their inquiries.
"Blake Ferguson, a contract player belonging to NEC Green Rockets Tokatsu, was arrested on December 30 on suspicion of possessing illegal drugs," the club said.
"We deeply apologise for causing a great deal of concern and inconvenience to everyone involved.
"Our team fully cooperates with the police investigation and strives to understand the situation."
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Owen Farrell is one of the most polarising figures in the game. His entire attitude on the field (and sometimes off of it) smacks of arrogance and he is about as brash as Donald Trump in a political debate. Yet behind that facade is a calculating, determined and powerful leader who drives any team forward with an Iron will. You are right in that he gets better in the heat of battle and in the face of overwhelming odds. He develops a narrow focus and he delivers his best in a way that few others can. He is one of Englands great performers who sacrificed alot for the team and who often bears the weight of responsibility of leadership alone on the field and in front of the media. Despite what many think of him he is a fantastic game manager with a good rugby brain. He will be sorely missed from the international stage
Go to commentsAlways proud of the effort, Sam. The All blacks never stop fighting, never just roll over. He didn’t get anywhere near the respect he earned, but that’s due to results, not commitment to the cause. Have fun dominating in Japan!
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