NRL player facing 12 month drug ban

Kirisome Auva'a of the Rabbitohs. Photo / Getty

South Sydney Rabbitohs centre Kirisome Auva'a is facing a 12-month ban from the NRL after twice testing positive to recreational drugs.

The tests were carried out by the NRL in the last three months and the results handed down to the club and the player this week.

The 24-year-old has the opportunity to either accept the ban or appeal.

The Rabbitohs star was suspended for 22 weeks last year after pleading guilty to domestic violence charges.

It is the latest drama in a forgettable season for the club, which after winning the 2014 premiership, are now almost out of contention for the finals.

Samoan-born Auva'a, signed a new three-year deal with the Rabbitohs at the end of 2015.

In April, Auva'a revealed his desire to become an ambassador for domestic violence.

The 13th-placed Rabbitohs have the bye this weekend and are three wins outside the top eight.

They face a tough run home in the final eight rounds, including matches against Brisbane, Melbourne, Cronulla and Canterbury.