Asenathi Ntlabakanye is likely to be suspended after testing positive for a banned substance prescribed to him by a sports doctor earlier this year for a health issue.
Lions CEO Rudolf Straeuli confirmed to Rapport that the union has launched an internal investigation after the Lions and Springbok tighthead prop tested positive.
According to Rapport, sources close to the matter say Ntlabakanye was “let down badly” by the doctor who prescribed the substance.
SA Rugby explained in a statement that the medication was given “with the approval and supervision of a medical doctor, who is specifically appointed to manage the medical affairs of professional players”.
The union stressed that Ntlabakanye had been transparent throughout.
“He acted in good faith and always followed the prescribed medical procedure. He relied on medical advice and at no stage attempted to gain an unfair advantage.”
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South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (Saids) CEO Khalid Galant told Rapport that because the substance was classified as “specified”, a provisional suspension was not enforced.
“It is different with a non-specified substance, such as a steroid, where a provisional suspension is enforced immediately,” he explained.
Ntlabakanye has not requested his B sample to be tested, and has assembled a legal team to prepare his defence.
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Galant added that the onus will be on the player to prove the ingestion was unintentional and that he took precautions to avoid a banned substance.
Even if the prop did not intend to cheat, the sanction could still be as high as four years. However, sources told Rapport that while a lengthy ban is unlikely, some suspension is expected.
Galant also explained the criteria for the prohibited list: “A substance must meet two of three categories – provide a pharmacological advantage, be dangerous to the athlete’s health, or go against the spirit of the sport.”
A date for Ntlabakanye’s hearing is expected within a week.
Photo: Anton Geyser/Gallo Images
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Asenathi Ntlabakanye is likely to be suspended after testing positive for a banned substance prescribed to him by a sports doctor earlier this year for a health issue.
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