Barba was granted a release after he tested positive to cocaine in the days following the Sharks’ maiden premiership win.

Barba also failed a drug test in early 2015, but Orr says the fullback is battling other issues as he undergoes treatment at a health facility in Thailand.

"Stepping away from the game is a chance for Ben to work on his personal issues and become the best Ben Barba he can be," Orr told News Corp Australia.

"This is not just about failing a drug test. There are other things he needs to work on and that's his entire life. This is a holistic approach.

"Ben made this decision himself, no one made it for him and in a sense it's released the pressure on him..

"He wants to be accountable for his actions.

"There are good people at the Cronulla club and they will support him through this."