Sailor banned from rugby over cocaine use

Wendell Sailor

Wendell Sailor has been banned from rugby for two years after an independent judicial committee found him guilty of taking cocaine.

The Australian Rugby Union announced in a statement Sailor's contract has been terminated.

The statement said Sailor tested positive to a metabolite of cocaine following a Super 14 match between his Waratahs and the Brumbies on April 16.

ARU Managing Director and CEO Gary Flowers commented for the first time on Sailor's case.

"Wendell Sailor's behaviour has been extremely disappointing and we have no hesitation in terminating his contract," Flowers said.

"Australian Rugby condemns the use of performance enhancing drugs and doping practices in sport. The use of any illegal drug is contrary to the ethical concepts of sportsmanship, fair play, good medical practice and is potentially harmful to the health of the individual.

"Australian Rugby will not accept people in their playing ranks who are not good role models for the children of Australia. His actions have been nothing short of irresponsible. He already had a track record for poor behaviour which had seen him called in front of ARU and Wallaby team Disciplinary Committees on several previous occasions."

Earlier this year Wendell was sent home from South Africa by the Waratahs for an indiscretion at a nightclub. He fronted an ARU Disciplinary Tribunal at that time as well and was suspended from playing.

Sailor's contract was due to expire at the end of 2007.

- NZHERALD STAFF