The Brisbane Broncos have stood down forward Joe Ofahengaue for two NRL games after he pleaded guilty earlier this month to being in charge of a motor vehicle with a blood-alcohol level in excess of the legal limit.

The Broncos took the decision to stand down the player after taking into consideration that it was not his first driving offence in recent years.

The Club had been working closely with the NRL Integrity Unit, which completed its investigation into the matter this week, and the NRL was satisfied with the punishment handed down by the Broncos.

Brisbane Broncos CEO Paul White said the club was committed to setting the highest standards for player behaviour.

“Joe is really disappointed in himself and very remorseful for what he has done,” said White.

“As a club, our goal is to set a standard for our players and Joe understands that he must pay a price for his actions that night.

“That price impacts on his teammates as he will miss the opening two rounds of the NRL season – but we know that Joe has learned from his mistake.”