Elijah Hollands is set to be banned for two weeks at the start of next season as part of an official drugs strike.
After finding a new AFL home during the trade period, Hollands is set to front court on October 31 in a first mention for possession of cocaine.
The Herald Sun reports the AFL’s integrity unit will await the resolution of the court proceeding but Hollands could expect a two-week ban under the league’s precedent for similar incidents.
Watch every match of the 2023 NAB AFLW Season LIVE & ad-break free during play on Kayo Sports. Join now and start streaming instantly >
LATEST FOX FOOTY PODCAST – Trading Day’s full review of every AFL club’s trade period
Listen below or subscribe in Apple Podcasts or Spotify
It would mean Hollands misses the opening two rounds of next season, which would include the VFL as well as the AFL.
Such a ban would follow the likes of Jack Ginnivan and Brad Crouch, who accepted the same penalty after admitting to drug use following information becoming public.
Hollands was traded from Gold Coast to Carlton during the trade period, with both parties aware he was facing a charge of possessing a dangerous drug.
“The Club was notified last month by Hollands, who was a Gold Coast Suns player at the time, given its existing interest in bringing him to the football club,” Carlton said on Friday in a statement.
“An informed decision was then made to proceed with the recruitment and the Club will now provide the necessary support to Hollands.
“He will commence pre-season training upon its scheduled resumption in November.
“As the matter is currently before the courts, the Club will make no further comment at this time.”
Hollands has played just 14 senior games since being drafted with pick No.7 in the 2020 draft.
