Drug testing results in two-year ban for rugby player

A rugby union player has been banned from the sport for a period of two years following a failed random drugs test.

Richard Carroll, a former Redruth lock, provided a sample that contained the stimulant amphetamine.

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry techniques are often used to identify doping in sports and Carroll was found to be taking the banned substance after a home game against Cinderford in February.

When a Rugby Football Union anti-drugs enquiry was launched, he handed in his resignation on March 23rd.

Due to the suspension, the 34-year-old is barred from all aspects of the game until March 19th 2012, which includes playing, coaching and training.

He will also be prevented from administering or taking part in an officiating or professional capacity.

It was recently revealed that record levels of drug testing are to be introduced for the London 2012 Olympics, with the event's organising committee expecting to take more than 5,000 samples.