Springboks’ fans defended “proven doper” Aphiwe Dyanti on social media against former Ireland midfielder, who criticised his recent return to rugby. Rugby Pass reports that former Ireland player Gordon D’Arcy heavily criticised the recent return of Springboks winger, Aphiwe Dyantyi, who’s served his four-year ban for doping.

The Springbok tested positive for multiple anabolic steroids and got banned in December 2020, shortly before the 2019 Rugby World Cup. The publication adds that Dyanti, who was contracted to the Lions in Johannesburg at the time, pleaded guilty but claimed he did not knowingly take a banned substance.

A disappointed D’Arcy wrote in the Irish Times: “What really struck me was that his return was so celebrated by the home crowd and the home broadcaster.”

Dyantyi did very little of note in the game and yet he was interviewed post-match. Nobody was in the least bit sheepish or ashamed about welcoming back a proven doper,” added D’Arcy

 

Springboks’ fans have slammed D’Arcy’s remarks towards Dyantyi, who recently made four appearances for the Sharks.

@mini_athi: “Drink Irish whiskey n let SARU conduct its affairs are you that jealousy of Aphiwe.”

@CraigVee: “He got punished and served his time. If it happens again, he’s gone for good. He probably never earned a living from any contracts or sponsorship either. I don’t condone what he did but he’s been punished and I’m sure he’ll be under a spotlight!

@Ralph70766640: “Can Ireland kindly focus on trying to get pass the Quarter Final stage at every RWC.”

@SimphiweDladla: “It’s gonna be long four years of blame games, regrets, hurt, what if’s. Shame I feel sorry for these guys…as I sip their tears from the world cup of glory.”

@statsdesk: “Aphiwe Dyantyi served his ban, and that should be the case closed. Aphiwe is free to apply his trade wherever he feels fit and can make a living to support him and his family. ‘He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her’.”