St George Illawarra front-rower Paul Vaughan has been stood down from all Dragons training and playing duties after breaking the NRL's Covid-19 biosecurity protocols on Thursday morning.
"I am very remorseful for the reckless and selfish decision I have made," Vaughan said.
"Everyone within the Dragons' bubble, including myself, are well aware of the protocols in place. I'm sorry for the harm my actions have caused to the club and my teammates."
Dragons CEO Ryan Webb expressed his disappointment in Vaughan's conduct.
"Paul is one of our most experienced players and we are upset with his judgement in breaking the NRL's Covid-19 biosecurity protocols," Webb said.
"Not only has he let the playing group and the entirety of our hard-working staff down but also our Red V members, partners and fans.
"Paul has been placed on a Covid hold by the NRL which involves two weeks of isolation and mandatory Covid-19 testing. Further club sanctions are also not out of question."
Recent signing Kaide Ellis (St George Illawarra player No. 234) will come into the team as Vaughan's replacement for what will be his club debut.
