Japan's top-tier rugby union has been suspended for three weeks ©Getty Images

Three weekends of matches in Japan's leading rugby union league have been postponed after a player was arrested on suspicion of using cocaine.

New Zealander Joel Everson, who plays for the Hino Red Dolphins, was arrested for alleged cocaine use last week, according to Kyodo News.

The Japan Top League, which had been due to resume this weekend after a break because of the coronavirus pandemic, said in a statement that all matches are postponed until March 29.

The league made the decision to conduct "thorough compliance education" for all 16 teams.

The Hino Red Dolphins have cancelled the remainder of their matches this season ©Getty Images
The Hino Red Dolphins have cancelled the remainder of their matches this season ©Getty Images

"We sincerely apologise to fans for the disappointment caused," the Japan Top League said.

"We had been working on preventative measures together with all the Top League teams, but it was insufficient. 

"As a result we have betrayed our fans and society, and we must work diligently to restore trust."

Hino Red Dolphins have also decided to cancel the remainder of their games this season following the arrest of Everson, which came amid wider concern over drug use in rugby in the Olympic and Paralympic host nation.

Several arrests over the illegal use of recreational drugs have been made in recent months, prompting Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) chairman Osamu Ota to claim it was a "major issue that shakes the foundation of Japan's rugby world".

The JRFU is set to meet later this month to discuss whether the matches will be rescheduled.