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Tukaha Cooper Suspended 24 Months for Cannabis Use

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, November 25th 2025 at 13:18 GMT by rnz

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Breakers Development Player Tukaha Cooper Receives Ban for Cannabis Use

A promising young rugby talent has been handed a ban after testing positive for cannabis during a routine drug screening. Tukaha Cooper, a 21‑year‑old forward in the New Zealand Rugby Union’s (NZRU) development pipeline, has been suspended for 24 months, according to the latest announcement from the national governing body. The decision has sent ripples through the Canterbury rugby community, raising questions about the treatment of cannabis in professional sport and the future prospects of a player who was once seen as a future star of the provincial and Super Rugby ranks.

The Incident

Cooper’s suspension came after he failed a “random drug test” taken at a training session with the Canterbury Crusaders’ development squad. The sample was subsequently sent to the NZRU’s Anti‑Doping laboratory, where the presence of a metabolite of cannabis was confirmed. The test was conducted under the same rules that apply to all registered players, meaning that any prohibited substance, even those classified as “non‑performance‑enhancing,” could lead to disciplinary action.

The NZRU’s statement made clear that the club’s internal disciplinary procedures were triggered immediately. It added that “Cooper’s case was handled with the seriousness it deserves, and the 24‑month ban reflects the union’s commitment to a clean sport.” The union’s drug policy – published on its official site – lists cannabis among the substances that can result in a suspension, even though the substance is not considered to provide a direct competitive advantage.

Context Within New Zealand Rugby

Cannabis, although classified as a “non‑performance‑enhancing” drug, is still prohibited under the World Anti‑Doping Agency (WADA) code. New Zealand Rugby’s policy aligns with this code, stipulating that any test result confirming cannabis use will trigger a suspension of a minimum of 12 months, with the possibility of longer sanctions depending on circumstances. In Cooper’s case, the union opted for a 24‑month ban, citing factors such as the nature of the substance, the repeated violation (Cooper had previously been warned for a second‑hand exposure) and the need to send a strong message to all emerging players.

The ban means Cooper will miss the entire 2025 season, effectively pausing his progression through the Canterbury provincial setup and precluding any participation with the Crusaders’ senior squad. His suspension will also bar him from any overseas or national representation while active, as per the union’s policy. While the union noted that Cooper has the opportunity to appeal the decision, a successful appeal would likely require substantial evidence that the sample was contaminated or that the testing protocol was flawed.

The Player’s Background

Tukaha Cooper first made waves at a junior level, representing Canterbury at the U‑20 national championships. A powerful forward known for his work‑rate and aggressive tackling, Cooper was named in the Crusaders’ development squad in early 2023, marking him as a potential future asset for the Super Rugby franchise. His selection was seen as part of a broader strategy to secure a pipeline of talent capable of stepping up to the senior team in the coming years.

Cooper’s family and coaches have expressed disappointment at the turn of events. An email from the Crusaders’ head coach, David Johnson, highlighted that “Cooper was an honourable and hardworking player, and we wish him well in his rehabilitation.” Meanwhile, a statement from Cooper’s father, a former provincial player, underscored the family’s regret and called for a “supportive approach” to help his son return to the sport.

Public Reaction and Broader Implications

The announcement sparked a debate on social media and within the rugby community about cannabis policies in sport. Some commentators argued that a 24‑month ban for cannabis use seems disproportionate, especially when compared to the treatment of other “non‑performance‑enhancing” substances such as alcohol or caffeine, which are allowed under the WADA code. Others, however, praised the union’s stance, emphasizing that the message must remain that all players, regardless of age or status, are subject to the same anti‑doping rules.

In a related post on the NZRU’s social media accounts, the union released an infographic outlining the substance categories and corresponding sanctions, reaffirming that cannabis, while not performance‑enhancing, is prohibited because it poses health risks and may impair judgment on the field.

The Road Ahead for Cooper

Cooper’s suspension opens the door for a period of personal reflection and rehabilitation. In line with the union’s policy, the player is required to attend educational seminars on drug misuse, psychological support, and lifestyle management during the ban period. The union also indicated that Cooper would remain affiliated with the Canterbury Rugby Union for the duration of his suspension, with the possibility of re‑integration should he successfully complete all required educational and fitness components.

Cooper’s case also serves as a cautionary tale for other young athletes. The union’s educational outreach has highlighted that the rules apply to all substances that can affect health or performance, even if the impact is indirect. The message from the NZRU is that players should be aware of the potential legal and sporting ramifications of substance use, regardless of its perceived harmlessness.

Conclusion

The banning of Tukaha Cooper for cannabis use underscores the New Zealand Rugby Union’s commitment to a clean, fair playing field. While the 24‑month suspension halts a once‑promising career, it also illustrates the stringent enforcement of anti‑doping regulations and the serious stance the sport takes on all prohibited substances. As the union continues to enforce its policy, the incident serves as a reminder to all players—especially those on the cusp of professional careers—of the importance of adhering to the highest standards of conduct both on and off the field.