Springbok World Cup winner Nkosi given three

Sibusiso Nkosi, a South African rugby player and 2019 World Cup champion, has received a three-year ban from World Rugby after testing positive for an anabolic steroid. The positive test occurred during a World Rugby examination in May, with his A sample confirming the presence of the banned substance. The suspension is set to last until July 15, 2027, as reported by his club, the Cheetahs. Nkosi, who played as a winger and was part of the squad that triumphed in Japan, has had a challenging career, including mental health struggles that led to a police search in 2022. He had been missing for several weeks before being located at a relative's home. His rugby career includes 16 international appearances and nine Test tries, showcasing his talent on the field. This incident marks Nkosi as the second player from the 2019 World Cup-winning team to face a doping suspension, following fly-half Elton Jantjies, who was banned for four years earlier this year. The implications of these suspensions raise concerns about the integrity of the sport and the ongoing battle against doping in rugby. Nkosi's ban not only affects his professional career but also highlights the importance of adhering to anti-doping regulations. As he navigates this challenging period, the rugby community will be watching closely to see how he responds and whether he can return to the sport after serving his suspension.