Why have a separate illicit drugs programme when you already have an anti-doping programme?
Although these illicit drugs are on the Prohibited List for anti-doping tests they are only banned under the anti-doping rules “in-competition” (i.e. for tests done immediately after a match). Some of these drugs will only show up in urine if they are taken close to the time of sample collection. A player could have a problem with regular drug use but if he abstains for as little as 72 hours prior to each match the risk of testing positive for some of these drugs can be minimal. Under the RFU Illicit Drugs policy these drugs are prohibited at all times and tests can be undertaken at any time. It is also more cost-effective for to test specifically for the four classes of illicit drugs. If a full anti-doping analysis was undertaken the programme costs would be considerably higher. The RFU already runs a comprehensive out-of-competition anti-doping programme.
