Penrith centre Taylan May’s career hangs in the balance after the NRL today formally stood him down under its no-fault stand-down policy.
May is facing allegations he assaulted his wife at their Werrington home last month.
He was arrested and charged by police last Saturday, and subsequently stood down by Penrith for the game against the Warriors on Sunday. He wasn’t named to play Cronulla this Saturday.
While the charges he’s facing do not automatically activate the NRL’s no-fault stand down policy, the league has today acted and will ban the 22-year-old from playing until court proceedings are concluded.
The NRL has also stood down Manly’s Brandon Wakeham, who is facing significant drugs charges.
“The decisions should in no way be interpreted as a view on the innocence or guilt of either player,” the NRL said in a statement.
“Under the condition, the players are not permitted to participate as players in the NRL competition or other competitions.”
Penrith issued a brief two paragraph statement this afternoon.
“The Penrith Panthers have been informed by the National Rugby League that Taylan May has been stood down as part of the NRL’s no-fault stand down policy,” the statement said.
“The club will continue to provide support to all parties involved and will not make any further comment at this time.”
May will front Penrith Local Court for a mention on Tuesday but the case could drag on for months.
The charges and court proceedings put May’s career in serious limbo.
Should he be found guilty, there is every chance Penrith would terminate his contract.
May re-signed with the Panthers earlier this year, inking a lucrative deal that will keep him at the club until the end of 2026.
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.