5 Feb 2016

NRL investigation into Roosters star continues

11:45 am on 5 February 2016

The Sydney Roosters Mitchell Pearce's long-term future remains clouded as the National Rugby League's investigation into his boozy Australia Day night looks set to enter a third week.

While the Roosters star addresses his alcohol problems at an overseas rehabilitation clinic, the club has been working with the governing body to work out a proper punishment.

no caption

Mitchell Pearce Photo: Twitter

The NRL's integrity unit is also looking at the possible use of drugs on the night in question following the emergence of unauthenticated texts between fellow partygoers.

But a combination of this weekend's NRL Auckland Nines and no chief executive at Roosters HQ means an outcome is unlikely to be reached this week.

Head coach Trent Robinson will also be in New Zealand, where all 16 clubs have been warned by NRL integrity unit boss Nick Weeks to be on their best behaviour.

According to a News Corp report, Weeks sent a letter to all 16 chief executives after yet another off-field incident at the Emerging Queensland State of Origin camp this week.

The Roosters captain Mitchell Pearce playing for NSW State of Origin side. 2015.

The Roosters captain Mitchell Pearce playing for NSW State of Origin side. 2015. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

"After a generally positive off-season we are working through some recent incidents of player misconduct that are damaging to the game," Weeks wrote.

"At the December meeting we discussed the importance of avoiding any off-field incidents during the Auckland 9s.

"I want to enlist the support of each of you to ensure the behaviour of your players and staff is impeccable."

The NRL adviser on women's issues, Professor Catharine Lumby, has led a chorus of those calling on Pearce to be dumped from the game after he was captured on video attempting to kiss a woman, simulating sex with a dog, and allegedly urinating on a couch.

At the very least, the 26-year-old appears set to lose the captaincy, miss this month's World Club Series in England, draw a heavy fine and cop a lengthy suspension.

The New South Wales State of Origin star was also likely to be banished from the Blues this year.

But, at most, Pearce could be deregistered and face a 12-month ban from the game.

-AAP