Brandon Smith Questioned by Police Before Milestone NRL Game
Over the weekend, South Sydney Rabbitohs star recruit Brandon Smith found himself in an unexpected spotlight before even stepping onto the field. The 29-year-old, who’s been gearing up for his 150th NRL appearance, was approached and questioned by Queensland police shortly after arriving at Coolangatta Airport with his team.
Smith had flown with the Rabbitohs squad to the Gold Coast ahead of their Sunday clash with the Titans, a match that carries serious implications for both clubs battling near the bottom of the ladder. Upon landing, officers reportedly had “cause to speak” with him. In a brief statement, Queensland Police confirmed that the male—whose age matches Smith—was released without charge, and no further details were provided.
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The NRL Integrity Unit has already been informed and has asked the Rabbitohs for more information. Club CEO Blake Solly declined to comment, and Smith’s agent could not be reached. Despite the incident, there’s no suggestion of wrongdoing, and Smith was still named to play, expected to take his spot on the interchange bench.
This milestone match is particularly meaningful for Smith. It marks his return from a knee injury suffered during his debut game for South Sydney, following a mid-season move from the Sydney Roosters. Before the game, former Rabbitohs and New Zealand hooker Issac Luke presented him with his jersey—a symbolic moment for the Kiwi international.
Smith’s career has had its highs and lows. He’s represented New Zealand 13 times and played for top NRL clubs, but he’s also faced scrutiny off the field. Back in 2021, while at Melbourne Storm, Smith and teammates Cameron Munster and Chris Lewis were fined and suspended over a video that appeared to show a white substance on a table. No wrongdoing was proven, but Smith later revealed how deeply that episode affected his family, particularly his niece and nephew, who were bullied at school.
This latest airport incident may have been brief and inconsequential from a legal standpoint, but it adds another unexpected chapter to Smith’s career. With the spotlight now fixed firmly on him, fans and officials will be watching closely—not just to see how he performs on the field, but how he navigates the attention off it.
For now, all eyes are on the Gold Coast clash. The Rabbitohs are desperate for a win, and Smith, stepping onto the field for his 150th NRL game, has the chance to shift the conversation back to what he does best—playing tough, competitive football. Whatever happened at the airport may soon fade, but this milestone moment will be remembered for years to come.
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