EXCLUSIVE: WADE Graham will not be required to front ASADA for a second time, following the abandonment of his interview almost three months ago.
Graham has been spared from the second round of interviews with anti-doping investigators, which are scheduled to begin next Thursday, August 1.
But nine other Cronulla players wanted for questioning are likely to request a postponement until Monday week to accommodate travel to their round 21 match in New Zealand on August 3.
Graham remains the first and only NRL player to face interrogation. On April 29, ASADA officers grilled him for roughly three hours until they called-off the interview amid a legal dispute.
The interview was aborted when ASADA became frustrated with Graham's refusal to answer critical questions pursuant to his right against self-incrimination.
ASADA postponed all further NRL interviews, opting to wait for new legislative powers that force any persons of interest to attend and submit records such as phones and personal computers.
The new law has been described as a "game changer", because it also brings in key figures such as former Sharks sports scientist Stephen Dank to give evidence or face a $5100 fine for each day he resists. Dank has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.
Wade Graham before his interview relating to the ASADA investigation almost three months ago. Picture: John Grainger
Legal representatives briefed the 10 Sharks players about the changed landscape on Tuesday.
All still have the opportunity to earn reduced six-month bans should they provide "reasonable assistance" - information leading to convictions of players or support staff - during the interview.
It's believed the level of co-operation Graham gave ASADA in April would not qualify him for a reduced ban if he is found to have breached the anti-doping code.
Graham could still volunteer to be interviewed in a bid to gain the discount.
Sharks football manager Steve Noyce declined to comment on Graham's case Wednesday night.
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