NRL's Bennett Defends Brandon Smith Amid Drug Betting Charges

South Sydney coach Wayne Bennett has strongly defended Brandon Smith amid drug supply and insider betting charges, calling the allegations “pretty trivial” and suggesting Smith is being targeted due to his high profile. Smith, who will appear in court on September 18, has been cleared to play in the NRL’s final round as the charges do not meet the threshold for the league's no-fault stand-down policy. Bennett drew parallels to the 2013 case of former player Russell Packer, who was jailed amid a crackdown on violent assaults, implying that police might be using Smith's case to send a broader message. Despite the controversy, Smith is determined to play against his former club, the Sydney Roosters, with Bennett confident in his professionalism and conduct on the field. Former Roosters teammate Victor Radley is mentioned in the case but is not accused of wrongdoing. The Rabbitohs and Bennett remain supportive of Smith, emphasizing his importance to the team and his commitment to avoid any behavior that could harm his standing during the game.