1
Tuipulotu cleared of doping
By Dejan Kalinic
New Zealand lock Patrick Tuipulotu has been cleared of doping and is free to return to rugby immediately.
A doping control B sample from the 24-year-old tested by a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)-accredited lab in the United States showed no presence of a banned substance.
Tuipulotu's provisional suspension has been lifted and World Rugby will not be taking the matter any further.
"This has been a challenging and difficult time for me, my partner, family and team-mates, and I am grateful for their support," the Blues lock said.
"I'm pleased the matter is now closed, with my reputation and integrity intact, and I look forward to getting back into training and an exciting year of rugby."
New Zealand Rugby Players' Association chief executive Rob Nichol said the Sports Medicine Research and Testing Laboratory (SMRTL) was investigating the reason for the difference in A and B samples.
"This is a matter that SMRTL is investigating and we look forward to their feedback," he said.
"This result also reinforces the importance of the regulations and strict confidentiality obligations regarding players and their rights.
"Patrick was unfairly labelled as a result of the premature publicity of this matter. We trust that everyone now has a greater level of understanding in this regard."
Trending on RugbyPass
2
Fissler Confidential: Radwan eyed to replace exit-bound England wing
3
England No8 Billy Vunipola tasered and arrested in Spain
4
‘It is the people’s champions against the actual champions’ - D'arcy
5
Latest Comments
Safas are so triggered by Ireland. 3 consecutive losses, incl RWC. 8 losses out of last 12 Tests. Always excuses, of course, with Bok fans. Now Rassie with his “88%” nonsense, the Claytons Excuse is an embarrassment to Bok teams of the past when every test mattered. Their fickle mojo will be on edge for the Ireland tour. Have the referees been appointed yet ? They will need security. Have WR laid out strict guidelines for TMO’s and replays on the stadium screens ? Will the constant stoppages from Bok forwards for cramps and bootlaces be tolerated ? We’re not talking a dominant Springbok team here, they won the LOTTO Cup and they know it whether they admit it or not. The Disney doco has their fans positively fermenting internally, its going to be a nasty hangover if they get beaten on home soil. What will the excuses be then……
Go to commentsGreat role model.
Go to comments