Springbok prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye has provided an “adverse analytical finding” during random testing by the South African Institute for Drug Free Sport (SAIDS).
A late Sunday media statement issued by SA Rugby stated that “Ntlabakanye disputes that he has committed an anti-doping violation.”
‘Prescribed by a specialist physician’
The statement added that the “non-performance enhancing substance for which he tested positive was prescribed by a specialist physician early in 2025 for medical reasons and taken with the approval and the supervision of a medical doctor specifically appointed to manage the medical affairs of professional rugby players.”
It went on to state that “Ntlabakanye was transparent in his declarations, acted in good faith and at all times followed the medical due process as prescribed by the industry.
“He relied on the relevant professional medical advice and at no time did he seek to obtain an unfair advantage nor did he take any medical substance without prior medical authorisation.”
As a result of the bombshell news, Ntlabakanye will not be considered for selection for the upcoming two-match Rugby Championship tour to New Zealand to allow him to concentrate on defending himself.
Career stats
Ntlabakanye, 26, attended St Stithians College in Gauteng.
He plays his provincial rugby for the Lions and has two Test caps to his name, both coming off the bench earlier this year.
| Full names: Asenathi Ntlabakanye |
| Date of birth: 15 April 1999 |
| Place of birth: Plettenberg Bay |
| School: St Stithians College |
| Springbok #949 |
| Physical: 1.83m, 153kg |
| Test summary: Tests: 2 Tries: 0 |
| First Test: 12 July 2025 – Reserve against Italy at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Gqeberha |
| Last Test: 16 August 2025 – Reserve against Australia at Ellis Park, Johannesburg |
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