The Manly Warringah Sea Eagles have announced that fullback Tolutau Koula has been provisionally banned and suspended indefinitely from all rugby league activities after returning an adverse analytical finding from a routine drug test.
In a statement released on Monday, the club confirmed that Koula had been stood down under the NRLโs anti-doping policy, pending the outcome of a full investigation. The Sea Eagles stressed that the suspension is procedural in nature and does not represent a final determination of guilt.
โThe club is aware of the situation involving Tolutau Koula and is working closely with the NRL and relevant authorities,โ the statement read. โAs this matter is ongoing, we will not be making further comment at this time.โ
The news has sent shockwaves through the NRL community, with fans, teammates, and former players expressing disappointment and concern across social media. Koula has been one of Manlyโs most important performers in recent seasons, praised for his speed, versatility, and impact at the back, and had played a key role in the clubโs recent form.
The NRL has confirmed that Koulaโs case will be handled in line with the leagueโs strict anti-doping framework. Under the policy, players who return a positive test are automatically stood down while investigations are conducted, including analysis of the โB sampleโ and any possible mitigating circumstances.
Koula has not yet made a public statement, but sources close to the situation indicate he is cooperating fully with the process. He is entitled to appeal and provide explanations should the investigation continue.
The incident represents another reminder of the NRLโs zero-tolerance approach to prohibited substances, with league officials reiterating their commitment to protecting the integrity of the sport.
For Manly, the suspension creates immediate uncertainty as the club considers its options ahead of upcoming fixtures. More clarity is expected once the NRLโs investigation progresses.
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