The New Zealand Sports Drug Agency (NZSD) and the New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) have reported an anti-doping rule violation against the Respondent after his sample tested positive for the prohibited substance Ephedrine.
The NZRL notified the Respondent and ordered a provisional suspension. The Athlete filed a statement in his defence and was heard for the Tribunal.
The Respondent did contest the positive test result, but denied any knowing use of a substance containing Ephedrine, and said he had no intention to enhance his sport performance. The Respondent used prescribed medications and supplements but was not able to point to the source of the Ephedrine. Therefore the Tribunal could not determine whether the use of Ephedrine was not intended to enhance sport performance.
The Sports Disputes Tribunal of New Zealand decides to impose a 2 year period of ineligibility on the Respondent starting on de date of his provisional suspension.
