Aphiwe Dyantyi will look forward to taking a major step towards closure in his rugby career on Tuesday as his hearing into the doping offence kicked off.
The 26-year old Springbok winger, who was an absolute sensation at international level in 2018, has been in limbo since July last year when a routine test following a national training camp revealed he had taken three banned substances.
A mandatory B-sample confirmed the results. Dyantyi, named World Rugby’s Breakthrough player of the year at the end of 2018, in January released a statement that outlined the supplements that potentially contributed to the adverse findings but nonetheless has been serving a provisional suspension.
Following numerous delays, which the South African institute for drug-free Sport (Saids) attributed to the corvid-19 pandemic, the deadly, finisher now could state his case.
Saids has stated that witness’s testimony will be presented on a virtual basis, while its senior lawyer will be dialled in via conference call from London.
All other relevant parties will be physically present at the hearing. In an exclusive two-part interview with Sport24 previously, Dyantyi revealed his mental anguish at being suspended before finding coping mechanisms and keeping fit. -Sport24.
The speedy winger who is an avid Chelsea supporter has been keeping himself in shape during lockdown going hard in the gym, as he deals with what is a mentally and emotionally challenging period in his career.
However, many have thrown into his support as he looks to clear his name.
According to SArugbymag.co.za Dyantyi’s hearing has been adjourned after three days of proceedings.
The South African institute for Drug-Free Sports (Saids) confirmed on Thursday that the matter is on hold for now, It remains to be seen when the new date will be set to conclude proceedings.
