James Maloney set to return to Lezignan despite positive drug test

James Maloney will always be fondly remembered in Catalans.

The stand-off was at the heart of their 2021 campaign as they finished top of the league and reached a first ever Grand Final.

However, his overall legacy in France took a hit when he was banned in France for testing positive for a banned substance.

The test occurred on 27th February and threatened to derail his time with Elite One Championship club Lezignan. It also threatened to undermine their season with a series of bad results following the test and his subsequent absence from the side.

However, according to French news source L’Independent, he has now been cleared to play and could feature in Lezignan’s play-off match today.

This comes due to Maloney’s co-operation with the ensuing investigation and the fact he was able to prove that the substance was not used to enhance his performance. So, the AFLD have lifted his ban which began over a month ago enabling him to return to the side and give them a major boost as they pursue the Elite One Championship.