Springbok prop gets 18-month ban for anti-doping violation
Lions prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye has been handed an 18-month ban by SAIDS for an anti-doping rule violation.
The Lions have confirmed that Springbok prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye has received an 18-month ban from the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) for an anti-doping rule violation.
In a statement released to the media, the Lions said that they would continue to support Ntlabakanye.
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“Lions Rugby Company confirms that it has received communication from the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) regarding the decision to sanction Lions prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye for a period of 18 months following an anti-doping rule violation,” the statement read.
“The Lions Rugby Company, together with MyPlayers – The Rugby Players’ Organisation, will deliberate on the appropriate next steps.
“During this time, the Lions Rugby Company will continue to support Ntlabakanye as he navigates the process ahead.
“As a result of SAIDS’ decision, Ntlabakanye’s period of ineligibility commenced on 13 May 2026, which rules him out of this weekend’s Round 18 United Rugby Championship fixture against Munster.
“No further comment will be made by the Lions Rugby Company or the player until the process regarding the way forward has been concluded,” the statement concluded.
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Source: Kick Off
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