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Roger Vaughan

Blue banned for drink driving, AFL punishes teammate

Wade Derksen is the latest Carlton player in hot water for an off-field indiscretion. (Adam Trafford/AAP PHOTOS)

Another Carlton player will miss the start of next AFL season because of off-field misbehaviour, with Wade Derksen banned for three games.

Derksen was charged with drink driving last month in the Northern Territory and the Blues have suspended him for their pre-season and opening three rounds.

His club suspension was announced on the same day that the AFL confirmed a two-game ban for teammate Lachie Cowan, who was admitted to hospital last Sunday after taking an illicit substance.

Carlton said Derksen recorded a high-range reading in Jabiru and will face court next month.

Wade Derksen.
Former GWS Giants defender Wade Derksen will have to wait a little longer to play his 16th AFL game. (Rob Prezioso/AAP PHOTOS)

"While we acknowledge the upcoming legal process will carry its own penalty, Wade’s conduct falls well below the standards we expect," Carlton football boss Chris Davies said in a statement.

"Wade is fully aware how disappointed we are in what occurred. We will continue to support him throughout this period as he takes full responsibility for his actions."

The 25-year-old also apologised for the incident.

"I want to express how sorry I am for what I did," Derksen said.

"The choice I made to get behind the wheel that day was unacceptable and is a moment I deeply regret. I have let a lot of people down and for that I apologise."

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