29 Jan 2011

Springboks cleared over failed drug test

6:52 am on 29 January 2011

Springboks Chiliboy Ralepelle and Bjorn Basson have been cleared to return to rugby after a South African Rugby Union judicial committee ruled that they were not at fault for their positive drug test last year.

The committee said in a ruling that a reprimand was the "appropriate sanction" for hooker Ralepelle and winger Basson after they tested positive for the banned stimulant methylhexaneamine following South Africa's victory over Ireland in November.

The players were provisionally suspended from all rugby activities as a result and had to return home from the tour.

The South Africa team said a new sports drink or flu medication taken by both players could have been responsible for the positive tests.