Australian spin bowler Shane Warne is to return home on Tuesday after being informed that he had tested positive for a prohibited substance.
Warne has withdrawn from the Australian Cricket World Cup campaign.
Warne said on Tuesday that he had been notified by the Australian Sports Drug Agency that he had tested positive for the diuretics, hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride. The substances for which he tested positive are fluid-reducing, and are not thought to be performance-enhancing.
”I do not, and never have, taken performance enhancing drugs,” said Warne.
”All my previous tests have been negative, and all future tests will also be negative.”
”I am very proud of the shape I am in at the moment,” said Warne. ”That is entirely due to hard work and training.”
Warne said he had notified his teammates on Monday of the test result. He said he had chosen to return to Australia in the interests of the team.
”My teammates have been very supportive, and I wish them all the best in the competition.”
In line with the Australian Sports Drug Agency’s testing regime, Warne and the ACB will await the results of his B-sample before a hearing in Melbourne by the ACB’s independent Anti-Doping Committee.
ACB Chief Executive Officer James Sutherland said the ACB took its anti-drugs policy very seriously, and all players were kept informed about its requirements.
”I commend Shane Warne for his open and honest approach, and for his decision to come forward about this positive test.”
”If the hearing finds that he has not committed an offence, we will apply to the ICC for his reinstatement as a player in the World Cup. In the meantime, we have asked for permission to bring in a replacement, and have asked the Selection Committee to nominate someone.” – Sapa
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