Springbok player handed three year doping ban

World Cup-winning winger Sibusiso Nkosi has been banned for three years after testing positive for traces of anabolic steroids earlier this year.

The 28-year-old former Springbok was part of the squad that won the 2019 World Cup. Nkosi has become the second player in that squad to have been suspended for use of a banned substance after Elton Jantjies was barred for four years last January.

Confirming the news of Nkosi’s ban, a Cheetahs official, wishing to stay anonymous, told AFP: “Sbu had a World Rugby test in May and his A sample was positive. He has been banned for three years.” 

Nkosi has found himself in the public eye on more than one occasion in the past, with his suspension from rugby being just another in a long line of indiscretions.

Just under two years ago, Nkosi was sent home from the Bull’s tour of Ireland and Wales after failing to make curfew, before going missing from club duties.