Former Springbok banned for anabolic steroids returns after 4 year absence

It has been a long four years for former Springbok Aphiwe Dyantyi after testing positive for three banned substances in 2019. 

Our latest signing in action 🔥#FearTheFin pic.twitter.com/qHWpysBbP3

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) June 13, 2023

The former Springbok was expected to head off to the World Cup that year as a part of the side that would eventually win the competition. It was not to be for Dyantyi, however, as his mandatory B sample returned positive for two anabolic steroids and selective androgen receptor modulator usage.

At the time his agent Gert van der Merwe was extremely vocal about the apparent extreme nature of the ban provided: “The decision makes no sense. My legal team and I plan on analysing the decision next week and we will decide whether to appeal.”

Despite the player having pleaded innocence throughout the process, the decision to reduce his banned was never granted.

Last year as he was over halfway through his ban, he took to social media to update fans on his progress: “This year marks three years out of the game (banned). A very challenging three years coupled with tears, rebuilding, love and laughter. A trial and error period in my life but two business projects down the line, I wouldn’t change anything about my life journey. The support has been both heartwarming and humbling. Thank you.”

Well, the four years are now finally almost up for the 2018 Breakthrough Player of the Year. With his return on the horizon, The Sharks have snapped up the 28-year-old in a move that’s sure to turn heads.

In a social media post, The Sharks featured a short video of the returning player.

It’s official ✍️, welcome @aphiweQ04 to #OurSharks family. #FearTheFin pic.twitter.com/2IvBCdWfiv

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) June 13, 2023

“More than anything I am just excited to be back, and I just trust that everyone around is as excited as I am to see what I can do. I only promise to give my best for the jersey.

“I have been now in Durban for quite some time, and I have kind of seen what the Sharks mean to the people. I want to contribute to that, and I have seen the pride that the people have, and I would like to honour that in all that I do and the fans to see that reflected in what I do on the field.”

With his ban ending on 12th August, there will be many excited to see if the former Springbok can return to his try-scoring best.