All Scottish Rugby’S Drug Tests Again Negative

A total of 264 drug tests were carried out on Scottish rugby players at all levels during last season, and once again none was positive for the ninth successive year. The number of tests in 2006-2007 was slightly less than the previous season’s record of 271.A total of 264 drug tests were carried out on Scottish rugby players at all levels during last season, and once again none was positive for the ninth successive year. The number of tests in 2006-2007 was slightly less than the previous season’s record of 271. The vast majority of the tests (208) were undertaken by UK Sport as part of Scottish Rugby’s anti-doping programme. The other tests were undertaken by the IRB, 6 Nations and other unions. Gregor Nicholson, Scottish Rugby’s international administration manager, said: “It is important that we endeavour to keep rugby in Scotland clean. We want a sport in which our young players and, just as importantly, their parents know they can aspire to play at the highest level without resorting to drugs.” Of Scottish Rugby’s own programme last season, 69% of the tests collected were undertaken out of competition at squad sessions or on individuals at home or at training. A considerable number of players were selected on several occasions during the season. Scotland lock Nathan Hines was tested as many as four times. So was Roddy Grant, the National Rugby Academy forward who played for Scotland in the IRB Under 19 World Championship in Belfast in April. No fewer than 18 players were tested three times, and 37 twice.