The National Hockey League suspended San Jose Sharks‘ Evander Kane for 21 games on Monday after the forward submitted a fake COVID-19 vaccination card.

The suspension will be without pay and Kane will not be eligible to play until November 30 at New Jersey, the league said in an official statement, according to Associated Press reports. Kane will forfeit about $1.68 million of his $7 million salary for this season with the money going to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

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A concurrent inquiry into claims of sexual and physical abuse made against Kane by his estranged wife, Anna, was unable to be proven, according to the league.

Kane had previously been cleared by the NHL following an inquiry into claims that he bet on hockey games, including those against the Sharks, made by Anna Kane.

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However, the league determined that Kane had broken the COVID-19 procedure. The league was investigating into claims that Kane filed a fraudulent vaccination card, according to a source familiar with the inquiry. Because the facts were not made public, the individual spoke on the condition of anonymity.

It is unlawful in both the United States and Canada to use a false immunisation card, and it is also against NHL regulations.

Only four players on current rosters have not been immunised, according to Commissioner Gary Bettman.

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Kane had not been with the squad since the start of training camp due to an agreement between him and the team that these investigations would continue.

Kane, 30, is three seasons into a seven-year, $49 million contract. After being selected by and making his debut with Atlanta/Winnipeg, as well as a spell with Buffalo, he is now with his third franchise.

In 56 games last season, he scored 22 goals and added 27 assists.