Victor Radley, a key forward for the Sydney Roosters, is set to make an early return to the National Rugby League (NRL) after only serving half of his ten-game suspension. The club has decided to count his participation in recent Ashes matches and pre-season fixtures toward his penalty, allowing him to resume play in round six of the season.
The suspension, which is without pay, stems from a serious violation of the club’s strict anti-drug policy. Court documents revealed that the 27-year-old requested cocaine from ex-teammate Brandon Smith. Although Radley was not charged by police, the implications of his actions placed his position at the club in jeopardy. The Roosters have emphasized their commitment to maintaining a drug-free environment, especially during the 2025 NRL pre-season.
Details of the Suspension and Fines
In addition to the suspension, Radley faced significant financial penalties. He incurred a loss of nearly $100,000 in wages and was fined $30,000, which will be donated to a Sydney hospital. The decision to impose such a hefty penalty reflects the club’s determination to address issues of player conduct seriously.
Radley’s early return is crucial for the Roosters, who are looking to rebound after a disappointing end to their 2025 campaign, where they suffered an elimination-final loss to the Cronulla Sharks. The club’s general manager of football, Mitch Aubusson, praised Radley for prioritizing his commitment to the Roosters by opting out of the England selection for the Ashes series. “Rads was going to be picked for England and he was desperate to play,” Aubusson explained. “There was no pressure from us. He made the decision to put the club first and withdraw from selection.”
Looking Ahead
Radley’s decision to prioritize his club over national representation underscores his dedication to the Roosters. Aubusson acknowledged the sacrifice Radley made, stating, “He missed out on getting paid for playing in the Test matches. He made the call to do it for the club. That’s what the Roosters mean to him.”
As the NRL season progresses, Radley’s return is anticipated to provide a boost to the squad. The Roosters aim to capitalize on his experience and skill as they strive to improve their performance in the league. Meanwhile, the situation surrounding Smith, who now plays with South Sydney, remains tense as he faces allegations of drug supply and insider trading related to betting. His case is scheduled for mention on December 4, 2025.
Radley’s journey highlights the challenges athletes face in balancing personal conduct with professional responsibilities. As the new season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how both players navigate their respective situations.
