The Provisional Suspension Notice asserts Mullen returned a positive A-sample for an anabolic steroid, Drostanolone which is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the NRL’s Anti-Doping Policy. 

He was tested by the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) on November 29, 2016.

Mullen is prohibited from participating in any WADA compliant sport, including Rugby League, while the provisional suspension is in place.

Mullen now has the opportunity to have his B-sample analysed.

“The club is obviously extremely disappointed,” CEO Matt Gidley said.

“The club has a strict governance program, the players are regularly educated and fully aware of the consequences of going outside our governance guidelines.

“From here, there is a formal process we need to follow under the guidelines.

“We need to respect the process and in the interim the Club will continue to monitor Jarrod’s welfare.”

Mullen is currently sidelined after suffering a pre-season injury which had the potential of rubbing him out for 2017.