Doc refused to testify in Bok prop case

Former Lions doctor Rob Collins reportedly declined to appear as a witness during the doping hearing involving Asenathi Ntlabakanye.

According to Rapport, Collins made the decision on legal advice despite Ntlabakanye’s legal team wanting to put him on the stand.

Collins allegedly approved medication prescribed to the Lions and Springbok prop by an endocrinologist for a condition affecting his weight loss.

Ntlabakanye tested positive for the banned substance anastrozole in May last year, while also declaring the use of DHEA on a medication form. Although DHEA was not detected in his sample, both substances are prohibited under anti-doping regulations.

MORE: Ntlabakanye cops big doping ban

SA Rugby previously stated that the medication had been taken “with the permission and under the supervision of a medical doctor specifically appointed to deal with the medical affairs of professional rugby players”.

According to his defence, Ntlabakanye acted in good faith after taking the prescription to Collins for approval.

However, anti-doping rules place ultimate responsibility on the athlete for any banned substances found in their system.

Ntlabakanye received an 18-month suspension – significantly less than the maximum four-year ban possible – with the disciplinary panel reportedly taking the circumstances into account.

Lions CEO Rudolf Straeuli did testify in support of the prop, while the Lions are expected to honour Ntlabakanye’s contract through to 2028.

ALSO: Banned Bok prop ponders next move

The player, the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport, World Rugby and World Anti-Doping Agency all have 21 days to appeal the ruling.

According to Rapport, the Ntlabakanye camp will make a final decision next week on whether or not to appeal.

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