Inglis suspended for two games after ‘one silly mistake’
Related Story: New Kangaroos captain Greg Inglis charged with drink driving, speeding Related Story: Mal Meninga names Greg Inglis as new Kangaroos skipper
Rugby League star Greg Inglis has been handed a two-game suspension by the NRL after being charged with drink driving and speeding.
Inglis is alleged have had a blood alcohol level of 0.085 and travelled 10 kilometres per hour over the limit while driving from Dubbo to Sydney yesterday.
He will now miss the Australian team's matches against New Zealand and Tonga after a decision by Kangaroos' coach Mal Meninga and NRL CEO Todd Greenberg.
Fronting the media this afternoon, Inglis delivered an apology for his actions, saying they were "not good enough".
"I know where I stand in the game as a role model to the community."
External Link: Greg Inglis on his way to Dubbo
He said he understands the NRL's sanction.
"I know I did the wrong thing and, while I am disappointed at missing the tour, I accept the penalty," he said.
Mr Greenberg said Inglis is one of the code's best role models and had an exemplary record but made a poor decision.
"[However] he deserves full credit for being upfront today by apologising and taking full ownership of the mistake," he said.
Mr Meninga said he hopes to see Inglis back in a Kangaroos jersey next year.
Inglis has been replaced as Kangaroos skipper by Roosters premiership co-captain Boyd Cordner, while his Rabbitohs teammate Dane Gagai has taken his place in the 19-man squad.
Earlier, the 31-year-old South Sydney player said he did not feel like he had let Australia down and he should not be stripped of his new position.
He was promoted to captain just two days ago, becoming only the second Indigenous player to be chosen for the position.
After attending Indigenous football competition the Koori Knockout in Dubbo on Sunday, Inglis went back to his hotel between 11:00pm and 1:00am.
He then left Dubbo for Sydney about 12:00pm the next day and was pulled over by police in Lithgow.
"I thought I'd be right to drive," he said.
"If anything comes from this … make sure you have a plan B."
Inglis, who has been a passionate advocate for Indigenous players and mental health, said he had the full support of the playing group and it was "one silly mistake".
Speaking on 2GB yesterday after his rise to captain, Inglis said he wanted to lead the country in the best way he could.
"It's a massive honour … I just want to do a great job as the other leaders did."
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