Russell Packer will not be allowed to return to the NRL this season, despite being given clearance to train with St George Illawarra.
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Packer was released from jail in January after spending 12 months behind bars for assault.
According to The Daily Telegraph, Packer has been banned from playing in the NRL but is available to play in the NSW Cup.
Dragons chief executive Peter Doust said the club would consider its position on the matter before making any decisions.
“The Club will be considering the NRL’s advice, as will Russell and his family,” Doust said in a club statement.
“We will need to clarify additional matters, to then be able to discuss with appropriate stakeholders and advisors.”
The Dragons have provided updates to the NRL on Russell’s progress in the hope that the 25-year-old would be cleared to play during the 2015 season.
The NRL’s latest stance will come as a blow to the Dragons who have helped guide Packer through a required welfare and education program.
As part of the program, Packer must take on individual training in the morning, work during the day, train with the Illawarra Cutters in the afternoon and study at night.
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