By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Elton Jantjies faces a possible ban from rugby after the veteran Springbok flyhalf revealed that he has tested positive for banned substance Clenbuterol.
Jantjies, who missed the final cut for the 2023 World Cup squad, faces potential suspension after admitting to the June test results reported to the SA Institute of Drug Free Sport.
Clenbuterol is a fat-burning and asthma medication which also enhances stamina, and in a statement released by Jantjies, the 33-year-old denied knowingly taking the substance, and vowed to prove his innocence.
Jantjies confirmed in a statement that a sample provided to the SA Institute of Drug Free Sport in June returned an adverse result for Clenbuterol, which helps with weight loss.
“It is with no small amount of shock and sadness that I have to inform you that I received notification earlier this month, from the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport, that a urine sample that I had provided to them in June 2023, returned a positive test for a banned substance, Clenbuterol,” it read.
“I have instructed legal representation to assist me in determining the source of the prohibited substance and I have instructed them to ask for my B Sample to be tested and to launch an inquiry into the possible causes for the positive test.”
Jantjies insists that he is innocent and will vow to clear his name if the B-sample is also positive.
“At this stage I can say little more about the matter, save that I assure all my supporters that I have not and never will deliberately take a banned substance, and that I will do everything in my power to prove my innocence,” he added.
“This is another setback in what has been a very volatile time for me, but I shall overcome this with the support of my family and friends. I know that there will be those out there who doubt my innocence, but I hope to prove you wrong, in due course. For those who support me, thank you.”
An SA Rugby statement read: “SA Rugby has noted the statement issued on behalf of Elton Jantjies and confirms it was advised of the adverse finding. A regulated process is now in train which we are bound to respect and allow to run its course without further comment or speculation.”
The 33-year-old Jantjies has played 46 Tests for the Springboks since making his debut for South Africa in 2012.