Spartans player Hoare handed four-year ban for anti-doping violation

The Rugby Football Union has confirmed a ban of four years for Gloucester Premier side Spartans RFC player Craig Hoare following an anti-doping violation.

Hoare sample had tested positive for the presence of Drostanolone, an anabolic steroid, and Methylhexaneamine for a test conducted following a game in April.

"Craig Hoare of Spartans RFC (level eight) has been suspended for a period of four years from all sport following the decision of an independent national anti-doping panel," the Rugby Football Union said in a statement.

"Hoare tested positive for the presence of Drostanolone and Methylhexaneamine after failing a test following a match on the 15 April 2017.

"The period of ineligibility has been applied from 5 May 2017 - the date of the provisional suspension - until 4 May 2021."