League: Roosters release Jayden Nikorima after suspension for second failed drug test

Jayden Nikorima kicks during a Sydney Roosters NRL training session at Moore Park on March 2, 2016. Photo / Getty Images.

Kiwi-born halfback Jayden Nikorima has been sacked by the Sydney Roosters after receiving a 12-game suspension from the NRL for a second failed drug test.

The Daily Telegraph reported the former junior Kangaroo has withdrawn against a planned drugs appeal and the Roosters have released him.

The 21-year-old brother of Kiwis utility Kodi Nikorima didn't feature in first grade in 2017 and must serve his suspension before he can play in the NRL again.

After making his debut in 2016, Nikormia went on to play seven first-grade games for the Roosters, but struggled to find his way into the rotation consistently before falling out of it entirely.