VIDEO: The price Cheetahs paid for Sibusiso Nkosi
The Cheetahs got ‘value for their money’, despite the negative publicity around Springbok wing Sibusiso Nkosi’s doping ban.
This is the view of the Cheetahs’ Director of Rugby Frans Steyn.
It has been confirmed that the 2019 World Cup winner, Nkosi, has been banned for three years by World Rugby.
He tested positive for an anabolic steroid normally associated with the equestrian world.
The 28-year-old, capped 16 times by the Springboks, underwent a World Rugby test in May and his A sample was positive.
He chose not to have his B sample tested and did not fight the case.
As a result, he was given a one-year ‘discount’ and was banned for three years.
Nkosi’s suspension will run until July 15, 2027.
The Cheetahs’ Director of Rugby, Steyn, confirmed to @rugby365com that they only received the World Rugby notification on Tuesday.
Steyn said they did not ‘waste any money’ on contracting Nkosi.
(WATCH as Cheetahs Director of Rugby Frans Steyn reveals the ‘cost’ of having banned Springbok wing Sibusiso Nkosi on their books….)
“He was good [value] for us and good to us,” the retired Springbok legend said.
“He was good value for the squad and the younger guys.
“For us [the Cheetahs] it is a massive loss.”
Steyn added that the doping ban is a bed of Nkosi’s making and he must deal with the consequences of his decisions.
“There is nothing I can do about it,” he said, adding: “I heard he wanted to stay in Bloemfontein and he enjoys the city..
“I hope somebody allows him to work here and stay here.
“I will go out of my way to support him wherever I can.
“I don’t think one [mistake] or doing something bad must define who you are.
“He is an awesome human being – with how he treats the other players and people of the Free State.
“It’s a massive loss for us.”
Steyn says he hasn’t spoken to Nkosi the ban was confirmed, but had a chat when news of the adverse finding first broke some months ago.
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