Sydney Roosters rookie Sandon Smith facing serious driving charge in Downing Centre Local Court
The Roosters next big star is facing a possible jail term, if convicted, after he was charged with a serious driving offence.
Sandon Smith, who is expected to partner with Sam Walker in the halves next year with Luke Keary leaving the club, is due to face Downing centre Local Court on Friday on a charge of negligent driving occasioning grievous bodily harm.
Details of what the 21-year-old is accused of doing have not been revealed, but it is understood the alleged victim was seriously injured.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.AAP understands the charge relates to an incident earlier this year, but the NRL was only informed of the matter on Thursday.
The charge carries a maximum nine-month jail term, $2,200 fine, and an automatic driving disqualification period of three years.
Tomorrow will be the first time the case has been heard in court and it is unclear if Smith will attend.
The NRL integrity unit is investigating.
Smith stepped in for the Roosters during the final series after Walker suffered a season-ending injury.
Sydney was knocked out in the preliminary final by the premiership-winning Panthers.
Already backed to start in the halves following Keary’s decision to retire from the NRL this year, Smith’s value then rose when Walker ruptured his ACL in August.
He is therefore expected to start the year alongside Chad Townsend in the halves, with Walker not likely to return until months into the season.
Smith, who resides on the Central Coast, played 15 matches in his rookie season for the powerhouse Bondi-based club and is a big part of the club’s plans for 2025 title tilt.
with AAP
