Andre Russell gets into trouble after violating whereabouts clause

Russell
Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Andre Russell. File Pic

Internet Desk: West Indies T20 specialist Andre Russell may face a likely suspension after failing to file his whereabouts resulting in him missing three doping tests over a 12-month period. Under World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) regulations that equates to a failed test.

The Kolkata Knight Riders cricketer was present at a hearing convened by the Independent Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel regarding allegations on Wednesday in Jamaica. A final decision will be taken later this year on September 20 when both sides are expected to present their cases to the panel.

In March this year, Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission (JADCO) alleged that Russell failed to file his whereabouts. According to Russell’s legal team, JADCO had been asked to present dates of the three violations for which the cricketer has been alleged to violate the whereabouts clause.

All parties agreed on hearing dates, and also on the deadline for the filing of documents. It was agreed that JADCO’s team would file their bundle of documents by 4:00 pm on August 10. The respondents are to file theirs by 4:00 pm on September 7.

Under World Anti-Doping Agency rules, athletes are required to make their whereabouts known to local anti-doping agencies to facilitate testing. An athlete may face a ban of up to two years if found in violation.

Russell is one of the most sought-after T20 players, playing in different T20 leagues all over the world.