Ireland star banned after failing drugs test

IRELAND international James Cronin has been banned for one month after failing a drugs test.

The Munster prop was randomly selected for a test after to the European Champions Cup clash with Racing 92 last November.

He tested positive for prednisolone and prednisone which are banned steroids.

However, he has only received a one-month ban for the anti-doping violation after it was discovered he was handed the wrong drugs by a pharmacy.

Prior to the game in question, Cronin felt unwell and had been prescribed antibiotics. However, an investigation found that the pharmacy had dispensed medication to him that was intended for another person.

Whilst accepting the clear mitigating circumstances, judicial officer Antony Davies ruled that the player had to take some responsibility for the drugs that were in his system.

It was also noted that Cronin, who has represented Ireland three times, co-operated fully with the investigation. As such, a one-month ban was deemed adequate.

Munster Rugby CEO Ian Flanagan said: “This has been an extremely challenging time for James and the province.

“We are glad it has reached its conclusion.

“In protecting the integrity of our player, the organisation, and the sport, I can assure you that this unintentional anti-doping rule violation is as a result of exceptional circumstances due to a third-party dispensing error by a pharmacy.

“Clearly the sanction is reflective of the strong mitigating factors in this case, and we look forward to James’ return to action.”

Cronin is almost certain to miss no rugby as he is free to return to play on May 16.