Rugby union player handed three-year ban by RFU for Trafficking of Prohibited Substances
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Luke Sharpley's rugby career has come to a screeching halt after he was slapped with a three-year ban from all sport for trafficking prohibited substances.
Competition: Get a Chance to Watch the Lions in Australia
The former player's downfall began in 2023, when he was handed an 18-month prison sentence (suspended for 24 months) at Northampton Crown Court after being found guilty of dealing cocaine and cannabis.
Both of these drugs are on the banned list for athletes, and Sharpley's involvement in their distribution led to anti-doping violations.
Following the court case, UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) launched an investigation into Sharpley's activities. After interviewing him, the agency issued a provisional suspension, with the Rugby Football Union (RFU) formally charging him for trafficking prohibited substances.
Sharpley didn't contest the charges, and by admitting his violations within 20 days of the charge, he managed to reduce his ban from four years to three, as per the rules.
With the time spent under provisional suspension taken into account, Sharpley's three-year ban will officially run from July 23, 2024, to July 22, 2027.
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Ireland's Andrew Porter remains the front-runner to start in the No. 1 jersey after his impressive performances in recent seasons. Scotland's Pierre Schoeman offers a powerful scrummaging option, while Wales' Nicky Smith is a consistent performer. England is well-represented with Ellis Genge, Bevan Rodd, and rising star Fin Baxter pushing for inclusion.
- Andrew Porter (Ireland)
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- Ellis Genge (England)
- Bevan Rodd (England)
- Fin Baxter (England)
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- 2 x Return flight tickets from the UK to Australia
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 2nd Test in Melbourne
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- Aaron Wainwright (Wales)
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
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