Blake Ferguson’s rugby union career is over before it has even started after being sacked by his new club after allegedly being arrested on allegations of the possession of cocaine as well allegedly punching a restaurant-goer.
Ferguson once had the NRL world at his feet after storming onto the scene as a fleet-footed, tough-as-boots winger.
But, at the end of the 2021 NRL season, Ferguson was let go by the Parramatta Eels after three seasons, scoring 24 tries in 57 games, and helping the club to the finals in all three years.
Though his NRL career had been thought over before the season actually finished, Ferguson had been linked with a move to rugby union as well as to Super League, with a number of sides thought to be eyeing him up, according to NSWL.com.
That being said, the 31-year-old had decided to swap codes and give the 15-a-side code a try, signing for the NEC Green Rockets in Japan Rugby League One, but that move has now been vetoed by the club in light of the incident, according to Stuff newspaper.
“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.”
However, the club later added a ten-word postscript to reveal Ferguson’s sacking: “[1/2 Postscript] Regarding Ferguson, the player contract was cancelled on January 2nd.”
Japanese police can hold offenders for up to 23 days for drug offences which could mean the former NRL star may face a prison sentence, whilst the nation itself has a strong stance on drug charges, with sentences of up to five years.
But, there have been fears from inside the club that the saga could actually force the Rockets to fold.
“They are looking to close it,” one insider told Fox Sports.
“The Japanese people take this really seriously. Such a sad day.”
The Rockets released a 500-word plus statement, apologising profusely for the incident.
“We would like to express our sincere apologies for causing great concern and inconvenience to all concerned at this very important time, when the opening of Japan Rugby League One is just around the corner, and for greatly disappointing the expectations of all those who have supported and helped the team on a regular basis,” the statement read.
“I would like to express my sincere apologies again. The entire team will make a concerted effort to regain your trust as soon as possible.”
Ferguson had played almost 250 games in the NRL with spells at Cronulla Sharks, Canberra Raiders, Sydney Roosters and finally Parramatta.
