Springboks Star Hit with Formal Charges, Faces Multi-Year Ban

Wednesday, 10 September 2025 at 14:54

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byRugby Rucker

they put in their bodies.

Springbok prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye has officially been slapped with a doping charge – and he could be staring down a four-year suspension.

the 26-year-old was charged by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (Saids) on 9 September for taking – a “non-specified” performance-enhancing substance.

Daily Maverick,

Here’s the kicker: Ntlabakanye didn’t try to hide it. He declared the drug on his medical forms, believing he was above board after getting clearance from two doctors.

“At no time did he seek to obtain an unfair advantage,” SA Rugby stressed.

A second twist

This is actually separate from the case SA Rugby revealed on 24 August, when he tested positive for a different “specified” drug during a routine July test. That one was prescribed for medical reasons and not performance-enhancing, but still carries a possible two-year ban.

The DHEA case is different – and potentially worse. Even though it didn’t show up in his results, Ntlabakanye incriminated himself by declaring it. Under strict liability rules, players are responsible for everything

A first-time offence for a “non-specified” drug like DHEA can mean up to four years out of the game.

Medical mismanagement?

Ntlabakanye’s case is far from straightforward. Both substances were prescribed and medically cleared, but crucially, no Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) was applied for. That paperwork might have saved him.

The saga also clouds his incredible transformation this season. Rassie Erasmus had hailed the prop’s near 20kg weight loss, crediting relentless training. It now emerges medical help was part of the picture too.

What happens next?

For now, Ntlabakanye is still free to play – though Bok management already pulled him from the New Zealand tour in anticipation of Saids’ move. He could yet feature on the November tour while the case drags on.

The best-case scenario? Proving he acted in good faith under medical advice, which might see his sanction cut to two years.

But unless he convinces the tribunal, his career could be defined not by his scrummaging power, but by whether he’s judged a victim of medical mismanagement – or a banned doper.

“Not at the level” – Four Springboks and four Lions in 2025 World XV

The British & Irish Lions may have returned from Australia with a 2–1 series victory, but selection into the current World XV has been far less generous.

Despite Maro Itoje leading the side to glory as captain, only four Lions make the cut—evidence that while the tour was successful on the scoreboard,

it didn’t necessarily produce a team packed with the form players of world rugby. South Africa and New Zealand dominate the line-up, with France and Italy also making strong contributions.

World XV

1. Ox Nché (South Africa — Loose-head Prop)

The Springboks’ scrum weapon. Ox Nché’s combination of power, technical precision, and low-body positioning has humbled some of the best tight-heads in the world. He’s been in relentless form, topping performance charts and setting the tone for South Africa’s physical dominance.

2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland — Hooker)

Ireland’s dynamic hooker was a constant bright spark in 2025—scoring tries, leading the set-piece, and offering a constant carrying threat. His Lions tour was standout, even if it ended in controversy with a short suspension. Sheehan’s blend of skill and aggression makes him arguably the most in-form No. 2 in the world.

3. Tyrel Lomax (New Zealand — Tight-head Prop)

Now firmly established as the All Blacks’ anchor on the tight-head side, Lomax offers brute force in the scrum and strong contributions in the loose. His work rate around the field complements his set-piece reliability.

4. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa — Lock)

A veteran enforcer who still plays with the same bite he had a decade ago. Etzebeth’s line-out presence, defensive steel, and leadership remain vital to every team he represents. A genuine intimidator.

5. Maro Itoje (England — Lock)

Captain of the victorious Lions in Australia, Itoje led with both physicality and composure. His tour performances were tireless—dominating the air, disrupting opposition ball, and setting the emotional tone for the squad.

6. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland — Lock/Back-Row)

A turnover machine and line-out threat, Beirne’s versatility makes him a coach’s dream. Whether at blindside or in the second row, he consistently delivers work rate, breakdown steals, and intelligent support play.

7. Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa — Lock/Back-Row)

Known for his tireless tackling and unmatched work ethic, du Toit thrives in the big moments. His ability to shift between lock and flanker adds valuable flexibility to any pack.

8. Ardie Savea (New Zealand — No. 8)

A one-man highlight reel, Savea mixes explosive ball-carrying with clever link play and crucial turnovers. His leadership and athleticism make him indispensable for the All Blacks.

9. Antoine Dupont (France — Scrum-Half)

The heartbeat of French rugby, Dupont combines lightning quick service with unmatched running threat from No. 9. Even after injury setbacks, he remains the gold standard for modern scrum-halves.

10. Finn Russell (Scotland — Fly-Half)

Russell continues to redefine playmaking at fly-half—pulling the strings with vision, audacious kicks, and pinpoint passing. His composure under pressure has made him one of the most feared playmakers in the game.

11. Damien Penaud (France — Wing)

Penaud is a finisher supreme, with a try-scoring record that rivals anyone in the world game. Blessed with pace, footwork, and instincts, he can turn half-chances into match-winners.

12. Tommaso Menoncello (Italy — Inside Centre)

Italy’s rising star has the power to break the gain line and the finesse to release his outside backs. His emergence has been a major factor in Italy’s growing competitiveness on the international stage.

13. Jordie Barrett (New Zealand — Centre)

Tall, skilful, and physically imposing, Barrett offers stability in defence and creativity in attack. His kicking game and vision add an extra dimension to the midfield.

14. Cheslin Kolbe (South Africa — Wing)

Still one of the most electrifying players in rugby, Kolbe’s footwork and acceleration can dismantle any defensive line. A proven match-winner in the biggest games.

15. Tom Wright (Australia — Fullback)

Australia’s dependable fullback brings a sharp counter-attacking game and safe hands under the high ball. His positional play and attacking awareness make him a key figure in the Wallabies backline.

Test Your Rugby Knowledge: Top 17 Point Scorers Quiz

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