Sepak takraw players, officials suspended for doping offence
THE STAR
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KUALA LUMPUR: Six members of the national sepak takraw team and three officials have been suspended by the International Sepak Takraw Federation (ISTAF) for refusing to take a doping test.
They were suspended following their refusal to provide urine samples for doping tests during the recent King's Cup tournament in Bangkok.
The Anti-Doping Association of Malaysia (ADAMAS) confirmed the suspension in a statement on Wednesday.
It is learnt that all the participants were required to provide their urine samples during the tournament, but the Malaysians refused to do so.
It is also learnt that the officials were suspended for declining to cooperate with the anti-doping agency that was entrusted by ISTAF to carry out the checks.
The ADAMAS statement also clarified that the nine have 14 days to appeal against the suspension.
Refusal to adhere to doping regulations and failing to give a sample is an offence under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
Going by WADA regulations, those involved can be suspended for four years or a minimum of two years if the mitigation process is handled properly.
ISTAF is expected to hold an inquiry once the nine have submitted their appeals.
The doping incident is a major blow to the sport especially as Malaysia will be hosting host of the SEA Games and Asian Games next year.
Sepak Takraw is also part of the ISN's podium programme. It's left to be seen if the sport will continue to be included in the 2017 programme.
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