Ntlabakanye's international rise hits a stumbling block after a positive test rules him out of the Rugby Championship tour. Image: SABC Sport.
(The Post News)– Springbok prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye has been hit with an unexpected setback after testing positive for a banned substance during routine drug testing, South Africa Rugby confirmed on Sunday.
The 26-year-old, who only recently made his international debut, returned what was described as an “adverse finding” by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS). As a result, he will not be considered for next month’s Rugby Championship tour to New Zealand.
Ntlabakanye, however, is disputing that he has breached any anti-doping rules. According to SA Rugby, the substance in question is not performance-enhancing. It had been prescribed earlier this year by a medical specialist and taken under the guidance of a doctor specifically appointed to oversee the health of professional rugby players.
For now, both SA Rugby and Ntlabakanye are staying quiet beyond the official statement. It leaves a cloud hanging over the promising front-rower just weeks after making his Springbok breakthrough.
About the Author
