Dope tests for Aust. cricket studied

Press, 25 September 1987, Page 34

Dope tests for Aust. cricket studied

NZPA-AAP Brisbane The Australian Cricket Board (A.CB.) has initiated talks with the Australian Sports Commission to examine means of Introducing random drug testing into the sport. It is, however, unlikely the testing will be introduced this summer, f The issue of random testing was raised at last week’s A.C.B. players’ committee meeting. The chief executive of the A.C.8., Dave Richards, said that there was probably not much of a problem with drugs in cricket, if at all, but the board was looking at methods and means of introducing random testing. • The major problem with testing was identifying what performanceenhancing drugs, if any, cricketers might use. “In years gone by there would have been absolutely no thought of testing cricketers for drugs, but we recognise there is potential for players to be exposed to the wrong advice on the use of drugs,” said Mr Richards. A.C.B. officers had been working on the introduction of drug testing for a couple of months, but the right procedure for tests had to be found. Mr Richards neither confirmed nor denied trial tests may be introduced during this season.

He said he would be very surprised if there was any real scope for drug abuse in cricket England’s Test and County Cricket Board has advised the A.C.B. on drugs likely to be used by cricketers, following talks with the British Sports Council.