Hull KR centre Thomas Minns fails drugs test

Hull KR centre Thomas Minns has tested positive for a banned, non performance-enhancing substance, and has been placed on extended leave.

Hull KR revealed the former Leeds and London Broncos player failed a drugs test following their win at Huddersfield on March 15.

The club said Minns will plead guilty to the offence but ask for a hearing to mitigate his penalty.

A statement on the club's website said: "We can confirm that Thomas Minns failed a drugs test following our match at Huddersfield Giants in March, having tested positive for a banned, non-performance enhancing substance.

"Whilst we are obviously disappointed by this as a club, we feel it is very important to stress that this is not just a difficult time for Hull Kingston Rovers, but also for Thomas himself.

"Thomas has expressed his regret and spoken of how he has found life away from the sport of rugby challenging in recent times, particularly since the tragic passing of his mother last year.

"Thomas has been a much valued member of the Robins squad and is a well-liked young man by all at the club. These are obviously difficult times.

"Following discussions with him since failing the test, we are clear that our priority and focus at this time must be to offer him our support.

"As yet Thomas has not been suspended by the club, but has been given an extended period of leave. He will plead guilty to the offence and ask for a hearing to mitigate his penalty.

"We will be speaking to the relevant bodies and the RFL about how we can now best support Thomas at this time.

"Any decisions over his playing future will be considered at a later stage and are not a matter for now."

Minns said: "I want to personally apologise to everyone involved who I have let down and disappointed.

"I admit to taking a banned substance on Mothers' Day 2018, which was a hugely difficult day for me following the passing of my mother last year.

"I was low and depressed on the day and I felt at the time I needed to do it to get through. I now totally accept that it was huge mistake which could cost me my career.

"I can now only ask for forgiveness and for my arguments of mitigation to be heard and understood.

"I do not wish for sympathy. All I ask is that I am listened to and I can make everyone aware that I did not take this substance to enhance my performance at rugby in anyway."