Rugby: Hougaard says Springboks will get over drug shock

Springbok scrum-half Francois Hougaard says the shock expulsion of two colleagues who failed drugs tests won't affect preparations for Saturday's clash with Scotland.

As Chiliboy Ralepelle and Bjorn Basson face up to the prospect of two years on the sidelines if their B samples test positive after traces of the banned stimulant methylhexaneamine (a caffeine-like stimulant found in many food and drinks] were found, Hougaard addressed the situation at team training.

"It's bad to lose two family members. It's not nice.

"But we've got to keep our focus on this weekend. It we are going to worry about that up until Friday or Saturday then we've not going to be there mentally for the game.

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"It's a big shock but we have to put it aside. I didn't see the guys before they left.

"We still don't know what caused this.

"I've never heard of that substance before. They've taken all our protein drinks away and now we can't even drink Cokes - we're off everything now."

Team doctor Craig Roberts could also be banned for the same period of time for his part after the two tested positive for the non-specified stimulant, it is being reported.

"The players and doctor involved could both face sanctions," chairman of the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport, Dr Shuaib Manjra has told the Cape Times.

"Non-specified stimulants have a mandatory two-year sanction.

"So, it all depends on the merits of the case," he added.

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