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Reports in France claim ex-Australia rugby league international James Maloney has tested positive for a banned substance.

Former Australia international James Maloney is facing suspension from rugby league after reportedly testing positive for a banned substance in France.

French newspaper L'Independant claims the ex-NRL star has not played in France's Elite 1 competition since late February as a result of a positive finding after a game for Lezignan.

It is unclear whether Maloney's B sample has been examined by French doping authorities.

Maloney joined Lezignan in France's semi-professional domestic competition after retiring from the professional game with Catalans at the end of 2021.

The 35-year-old helped guide the Dragons to their maiden Super League grand final appearance last year, losing to St Helens.

Maloney, who won three caps for Australia and also represented NSW in State of Origin, played with Melbourne, the Warriors, the Sydney Roosters, Cronulla and Penrith across his 247-game NRL career.