Ex-Test batsman Jesse Ryder has been suspended for six months for failing a doping test, but will not miss any first-class cricket because of the ban.
The New Zealand Sports Disputes tribunal said in a statement on Tuesday that Ryder returned a positive test for two banned stimulants after a domestic Twenty20 match in March and was provisionally suspended on April 19. The ban was imposed at a hearing on Aug. 9, and backdated to April 19.
The restrospective nature of the ban means Ryder will be available from Oct. 19 for the start of next first-class season in New Zealand.
Ryder admitted the violation, telling the hearing he used a dietary supplement to lose weight and had taken two capsules five days before being tested in the belief that it conformed with New Zealand doping protocols, and arguing that the product may have been contaminated or mislabeled.
Ryder said on Tuesday he used the weight-loss product Gaspari Detonate as part of a wider fitness program and after consulting his trainer and coach. “I’m devastated by this situation,” Ryder said in a statement released through the New Zealand Cricket Players’ Association. “I’ve never taken drugs and to be in this situation distresses me greatly. I simply took the supplement alongside a training program I was completing to help me lose weight.”
Ryder said he had attended anti-doping seminars throughout his cricket career and was a supporter of Drug Free Sport New Zealand. “I’m aware of the precautions you need to take; I did take steps to check the supplement but ultimately it was my responsibility and I accept that,” he said. “Whilst everyone is aware of my well-documented battles with alcohol, it’s important for me to state that I abhor drug use of any kind, both recreational and performance-enhancing in sport.” AP