By Casey O'Connor
The NRL Integrity unit and Melbourne Storm bosses have come down hard on the Storm players, Cameron Munster and Brandon Smith for their part in the white powder video scandal.
The NRL has issued breach notices.
Munster has been fined $30,000 and Smith $15,000 and each suspended for one game.
The other player caught up in the scandal Chris Lewis has been fined $4,000 and suspended for one game.
They will also be required to undertake education and training as directed by the NRL.
Warriors youngster Reece Walsh has also been sanctioned for bringing the game into disrepute.
He has been banned for two matches and fined $5,000.
The NRL says the fines are commensurate with the players individual salaries.
In addition, the Storm trio has been hit hard by their club’s own sanctions including suspended fines of more than $150,000.
Munster has attracted the largest and now has a $100,000 fine hanging over his head should he transgress again.
Earlier in the week he announced he will undertake professional treatment for alcohol at a rehabilitation facility over coming weeks.
It is reported Munster is on his last chance and has been placed on a 12 month booze ban.
Many will say he and Smith can count themselves lucky to be playing in 2022.
Meanwhile former Storm captain Cameron Smith has been scathing in his criticism of the players.
In his words they have tarnished the image of the club that he and his club mates and many before them have worked so hard to build.
NRL officials will no doubt be holding their collective breath for the next few weeks hoping there is not more bad news in the offing.
Whispers are that there could be more scandals heading their way.
We will watch and wait.
Let’s hope not.
