• Cricket

Batsman banned after failing drug test

ESPNcricinfo staff
August 20, 2013

New Zealand batsman Jesse Ryder has been banned for six months after failing a drug test in March.

He tested positive for two banned stimulants in March and was handed a provisional suspension on April 19. The hearing took place on August 19 when the original decision was confirmed. He is eligible to resume his career on 19 October.

Ryder, who has not played since March when he was left seriously injured after being assaulted, said he had taken the over-the-counter dietary supplement which contained the banned substances while fighting weight problems.

The hearing accepted he had not been attempting to cheat which is why the ban was only six months and not the two years which is the maximum.

"I've never taken drugs and to be in this situation distresses me greatly," he said. "I'm devastated by this situation. I simply took the supplement alongside a training programme I was completing to help me lose weight.

"Whilst everyone is aware of my well-documented battles with alcohol, it's important for me to state that I abhor drug use of any kind, both recreational and performance-enhancing in sport."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
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