Overview:

Anti-doping – Southland rugby league player (M) tested positive for a metabolite of cannabis in a concentration higher than that permitted under the Prohibited List in sample taken from him in competition – provisionally suspended without opposition – admitted violation of Sports Anti-Doping Rules 2016 (SADR) Rule 2.1 and asked to be heard as to sanction – recreational cannabis use and not for sports performance enhancing reasons – accepted M could establish no significant fault or negligence in seeking a reduction of the two year period under SADR Rule 10.5.1.1 –Tribunal assessed appropriate sanction having regard to degree of fault – Tribunal decided appropriate period of ineligibility was 6 months – fairness and consistency in line with recently decided Ngatoko case – backdated to date of provisional suspension.