‘DOPE KILLING MY SPORT’

A RUGBY UNION player who was banned for doping claims drugs could destroy the sport.

Sam Chalmers, son of Scotland legend Craig, served a two-year suspension for taking anabolic steroids.

He said players are driven to banned substances by the physical demands of the modern game.

And he told TV’s 5 News the problem is worst in the lower leagues where there are fewer tests – a view echoed by the UK Anti-Doping Agency.

Chalmers, 21 (below), now at Melrose, said: “There is a problem in rugby. Doping is damaging, it’s our reputation, rugby’s a good sport, a respected sport – this could bring the game down if it’s not dealt with properly. “You’re competing against someone who has the same skills as you, but he’s more physically there. It’s going to be an easy decision for a coach to make.”