Carlton to investigate players’ separate hospital visits

Carlton will conduct an internal investigation after Lachie Cowan and Will Hayward were hospitalised and pass its findings to the AFL, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.

The newspaper, citing two sources familiar with the situation, said club officials, including its integrity officer, would examine the circumstances. The AFL could then decide whether to involve its own integrity unit or take further action.

Carlton confirmed that the players were admitted on Sunday under separate circumstances. Cowan received treatment and observation before being discharged. Hayward had stitches for a minor head wound after a fall and was also discharged.

The newspaper explicitly said it could not confirm reports that illicit drugs were involved in either incident. The club’s statement did not establish such a link. The AFL has not announced sanctions.

According to the report, the players’ association argues against punishing footballers for seeking medical attention, warning that sanctions could discourage others from getting treatment.

The report discusses earlier two-match suspensions over public drug-related incidents. Those cases occurred outside post-season leave and do not establish the outcome of the current inquiry.