Kookaburras star Tom Craig hit with 12-month suspension after being arrested for buying cocaine in Paris

Olympian Tom Craig has been suspended for 12 months by Hockey Australia following his arrest for buying cocaine on a Paris street.

In imposing the ban, the HA integrity unit ruled that half of the sanction would be served fully – from September 9 – with the remaining six months to be fully suspended, provided Craig met conduct and behavioural requirements.

While banned, 29-year-old Craig will be unable to play in any match, competition, or event at any level sanctioned or organised by HA, including the Hockey One League and FIH Pro League.

He will also have to complete training and education programs as part of his sanction.

Craig is still eligible for selection in next year’s national men’s hockey squad.

“His welfare remains our priority,” a HA statement said.

“Tom has had access to all of the athlete support services under our program and he will continue to do so throughout his suspension.”

Craig spent a night in custody after being arrested for buying a gram of cocaine on the streets of Paris last month after the Kookaburras completed their Olympics campaign.

“I made a terrible mistake and I take full responsibility for my actions,” Craig said after being discharged from the Paris police headquarters with a criminal warning.

“My actions are my own and by no way reflect the values of my family, my teammates, my friends, my sport and the Australian Olympic team.

“I’ve embarrassed you all. I’m truly sorry.”