Committed to control doping, says WSH

Out-of-favour India hockey goalkeeper Adrian D'Souza yesterday tested positive for a banned substance in a random test conducted by NADA during the inaugural WSH, which concluded earlier this month.

According to sources, Adrian's 'A' sample, collected on March 21, contained "higher concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a metabolite of marijuana".

"With WSH, the highest standards of measures to control doping were provided for the first time for a domestic sporting event held in India. The sample collection was done by an authorised agency and tests were conducted in a WADA accredited laboratory (NDTL, New Delhi)," the WSH said in a statement.

"Based on the system followed by NADA, there emerged one positive drug test for tetrahydrocannabinol. The player has been informed about this, and it is possible for him to ask for a 'B' sample test within seven days' time from the date of the receipt of the order," it added.

As per Article 15 of the NADA Anti Doping Rules which relates to Public Disclosure, any other information on the identity of the player is confidential and can only be made public after all procedures are completed.

Speaking about this, Dennis Meredith, Technical Director of World Series Hockey, said, "All procedures followed by World Series Hockey were in accordance with the most stringent standards set for dope testing at any global sporting event. WSH continues to follow the same procedure for every player in our commitment to deliver a world class sports league which has the highest benchmark set for anti-doping measures." PTI AH