Star Signing Brandon Smith Questioned by Police on Game Day
No charges laid as Rabbitohs playmaker cleared to play 150th NRL match
South Sydney’s new recruit Brandon Smith was spoken to by Queensland Police upon his arrival at Gold Coast Airport on Saturday. The club has since confirmed contact with the NRL Integrity Unit.
No Charges, Full Clearance
The 29-year-old NRL player was released by authorities without any charges being filed. This allowed him to join his teammates and prepare for his milestone 150th career game against the Gold Coast Titans.
Club chief executive **Blake Solly** confirmed the situation prior to kick-off. He stated that **Smith** was permitted to join the team at their hotel and was cleared to participate in the match.
Queensland Police released a brief statement: “Queensland Police had cause to speak to a 29-year-old male at Coolangatta Airport. The male was later released without charge. Police have no further information to provide.”
It is understood **Smith** did not engage in any inappropriate behaviour on the flight. The Titans organisation reportedly assisted stadium staff to prevent media attention on **Smith** as the team arrived.
Milestone Match Amidst Scrutiny
**Smith** joined the Rabbitohs mid-season after obtaining a release from the Sydney Roosters. His return to the field was delayed by an ACL injury sustained last year.
He suffered another knee injury, an MCL sprain, in his very first game for South Sydney in round 18. Sunday’s appearance marks only his second outing for the club.
His career statistics prior to this match include 107 games for Melbourne and 41 for the Roosters. This incident follows a period where players have faced increased scrutiny from the NRL Integrity Unit, with recent investigations into off-field conduct impacting several clubs.