Asenathi Ntlabakanye, the rising Springbok tighthead prop, has tested positive for a banned substance during routine drug testing by SAIDS.
PROP DENIES INTENTIONAL DOPING
Springbok team officials confirmed that Ntlabakanye returned an “adverse analytical finding” during a random drug test conducted by SAIDS earlier this year.
The statement said Ntlabakanye maintains his innocence, claiming the substance was medically prescribed and taken under authorised professional medical supervision. He tested positive for a non-performance enhancing drug that was reportedly prescribed by a specialist physician early in 2025.
The Springbok medical team says the substance was taken with approval and oversight from a doctor assigned to professional rugby players. Ntlabakanye was transparent in declaring his medical use, according to the Springbok statement, and followed all industry-prescribed medical procedures.
NTLABAKANYE WILL MISS NEW ZEALAND TOUR
In light of the ongoing process, the Springboks confirmed Ntlabakanye will not be selected for the upcoming tour to New Zealand.
This absence allows the young front-rower to focus fully on defending his case and engaging with SAIDS through proper legal channels. His omission comes at a critical time, with fellow tighthead Frans Malherbe also sidelined due to a long-term injury issue.
That leaves Wilco Louw, Vincent Koch, Neethling Fouché, and Thomas du Toit as the Springboks’ available options at tighthead prop. Ntlabakanye’s absence may affect squad depth as the Springboks prepare for crucial Rugby Championship fixtures abroad.
SPRINGBOKS REMAIN SILENT AS PROCESS UNFOLDS
Springbok management urged media and the public to respect the ongoing legal process handled by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport.
“No coaches or players will comment on the matter until the official process has concluded,” said the statement issued on Sunday.
Officials emphasised Ntlabakanye’s cooperation with authorities and reiterated that he did not seek to gain any sporting advantage. The player insists his actions were medically justified, legally transparent, and consistent with professional rugby’s health regulations.
His legal representatives are expected to present the case in full once SAIDS completes its investigation.
PROMISING CAREER NOW UNDER SCRUTINY
Ntlabakanye debuted for the Springboks in July during the emphatic 45-0 win over Italy at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. The 25-year-old has been praised for his powerful scrummaging and was seen as a key figure in South Africa’s future plans.
His rapid rise to national selection has made the positive test all the more surprising to fans and commentators alike. If cleared, Ntlabakanye will hope to return swiftly to international contention; if not, a suspension could halt his promising trajectory.
For now, his focus remains on clearing his name and cooperating fully with the disciplinary process.
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