Carlton defender Lachie Cowan has received a “wake-up call” after being suspended for two matches for the use of an illicit substance during a night out last weekend. In addition to the ban, which will be served at the beginning of next season, Cowan was handed a $5,000 suspended fine along with a “notifiable adverse finding” under the AFL’s illicit drugs policy. He must also undertake further education on illicit substances and their effects.
A club statement on Sunday afternoon said Cowan had “received medical treatment and underwent observation, before being discharged a short time later”. Blues teammate Will Hayward was also admitted to hospital and required stitches to a minor cut to his head in what Carlton said were “separate circumstances”. Ambulance Victoria said paramedics responded to an incident in South Yarra at about 5.15am on Sunday, with a man in his 20s taken by ambulance to the Alfred hospital in a stable condition.
The sanctions handed to Cowan come with the AFL’s new illicit drugs policy due to come into effect in January 2027. All players will be hair tested upon their return to training in January, with readings going as far back as three to six months prior, while education sessions will be held at all clubs across November and December. Lachlan admitted his mistake and understands he must be accountable for his actions.” Carlton expressed their disappointment in a statement while committing to provide Cowan with wellbeing support.
Lachie understands that it is his responsibility to ensure he makes better decisions moving forward.” Cowan played 24 matches this year and finished fifth in the Blues’ best and fairest after a breakout season. He has played 62 games since being drafted with pick No 30 in 2022.
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