Smith punished for illicit drug use

WESTERN Bulldogs midfielder Bailey Smith has been suspended for two games by the AFL.

Smith’s punishment comes after images and a video emerged of him using an illicit drug recently.

It means the 21-year-old will miss four matches after receiving a two-week ban for headbutting Geelong’s Zach Tuohy in round 12.

He has also received a ‘notifiable adverse finding’, or strike, under the AFL’s Illicit Drugs Policy.

Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains said in a club statement, “Bailey has shown clear contrition and remorse over recent days, and has spoken openly and maturely about his challenges.

“As we have stated, we do not condone the behaviour in question and remain very disappointed it occurred.

“We are pleased however that Bailey has assumed unqualified responsibility for the mistake he has made and is intent on learning from it.

“We will continue to strongly support Bailey through this difficult period.  Our primary responsibility to him and all of our players is to ensure that their health and wellbeing is safeguarded.”

Smith confessed to using an illicit substance following the 2021 season where the Bulldogs lost the grand final to Melbourne.

– BY ALEX ZAIA/ SEN