Springbok Asenathi Ntlabakanye banned for 18 months

The Bok behemoth's urine sample tested positive for the hormone and metabolic modulator, Anastrozole, during an out-of-competition test on 22 May 2025. The substance was prescribed by a doctor for medical reasons.  Ntlabakanye also admitted the use of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a performance-enhancing substance, on a medical form.

The ban was issued by the Independent Doping Tribunal Panel and announced by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport on Thursday.

"In terms of the South African Anti-Doping Rules, this substance is classified as a 'specified substance' and does not warrant a mandatory suspension," the statement said.

"The player also self-declared the use of a prohibited anabolic steroid, DHEA. On 9 September 2025, he was formally charged for the presence and use of Anastrozole and the use of DHEA.

"Furthermore, the Doping Tribunal ruled that all the player's individual competitive results and benefits such as player-of-the-match awards, personal accolades, match fees and bonuses are disqualified with effect from the date of sample collection. The disqualification of results is limited to the player's own individual competitive results and benefits and does not extend to a team result.

"SAIDS is reviewing the merits of the decision within the framework of the Anti-Doping Rules to decide whether it will appeal the decision."

The ban is effective from 13 May 2026, meaning Ntlabakanye will only be able to play again from 13 November 2027.

The Lions confirmed they had received the news and will support the 27-year-old through the process.

"The Lions Rugby Company confirms that it has received communication from the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport, regarding the decision to sanction Lions prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye for a period of 18 months following an anti-doping rule violation," the Lions' statement said.

"The Lions Rugby Company, together with MyPlayers, the Rugby Players' Organisation, will deliberate on the appropriate next steps. During this time, the Lions Rugby Company will continue to support Ntlabakanye as he navigates the process ahead."

Ntlabakanye earned four caps for the Springboks, as well as 83 for his beloved Lions in Johannesburg, where he has become a cult hero.