Leigh Leopards forward Owen Trout’s one-month absence explained by UKAD cannabis ban
Leigh Leopards forward Owen Trout’s one-month absence from Super League action last season was confirmed as the result of a ban following a positive cannabis test. The 27-year-old England international missed matches between May 16 and June 27 before returning to the squad. UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) has now released details clarifying the timeline of his suspension and subsequent return to play.
Trout returned an adverse finding after a post-match test following a game against Super League champions Wakefield Trinity in late March. The Yorkshireman was provisionally suspended on May 22 after admitting to smoking a joint and eating a cannabis gummy during the week leading up to the fixture. He was formally charged on July 20, although the ban was adjudged to have been served from May 22 to June 21.
During his suspension, Trout completed an approved ‘substance of abuse’ treatment programme as part of his rehabilitation. He has since returned to full fitness and featured in 26 matches during his final season for the Leigh Leopards. The player is set to move to NRL side Cronulla Sharks from the 2027 season onwards.
Leopards head coach Adrian Lam addressed the situation in June, emphasising the club’s supportive approach to the player’s wellbeing. Lam stated: “As a club, the general comment is we’re making sure he’s okay and that everything involved with him is at a level where we’re coping.
The head coach further explained the club’s ongoing support for Trout during his recovery period. “We’re just looking after him. There’s not really a timeframe [for his return], it’s just on a week-to-week basis,” Lam added regarding the player’s availability.
Lam concluded his comments by highlighting the club’s commitment to providing necessary resources for Trout. “I don’t want to say too much else about that, as a club we’re supporting him through this process and making sure he’s got everything he needs,” he confirmed.
Trout made his sole England appearance to date against Australia last year, establishing himself as a key figure in the national setup. His move to the NRL marks a significant step in his career following his successful tenure in the Super League.
