The National Rugby League has taken control of the embattled Gold Coast Titans in the wake of the drugs scandal engulfing the club and their financial difficulties.
Five Titans players – Greg Bird, David Taylor, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Jamie Dowling and Beau Falloon - have been issued with notices to appear in court in relation to drug offences.
And the NRL has moved to take over a club that was already struggling for survival and facing declining attendances.
NRL CEO Dave Smith said serious financial difficulties had led to the licence being terminated and the league taking over.
He said the move secured the Titans' future.
"The only difference for Titans fans is that they will have the security of knowing their team has a long-term future on the Gold Coast," Smith said in a statement.
"This is an important region for rugby league and the Titans remain part of our long term plans for the game.
"This move will give the club a fresh start with the certainty that the players, staff and fans want."