Former Rochdale Hornets player Ryan Forshaw receives three year doping ban

Ryan Forshaw

Former Rochdale Hornets player Ryan Forshaw has been banned from all sport for three years after he tested positive for two banned substances.

UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) collected an out-of-competition urine sample from Forshaw at a Hornets training session on 16 February 2022.

Forshaw admitted the use of anabolic agents 19-norandrosterone and metandienone, which are both banned at all times.

The former Wigan Warriors U19 half-back first signed to Hornets in 2021 and re-signed in February this year for the 2022 season.

UKAD issued Forshaw with a three-year ban which started on 6 May 2022 and will expire at midnight on 5 May 2025.

Speaking on the case, UKAD Director of Operations, Pat Myhill said: “Anabolic agents such as these are prohibited in sport at all times.

“Athletes are reminded under the principle of strict liability, that they are solely responsible for what goes into their bodies.

“Players who choose to use anabolic agents in sport, let their teammates down and put their health and career at serious risk.”

Steve Kerr, chief executive of Rochdale Hornets, said: “Ryan left the club shortly after the season started as he wasn’t receiving regular game time.

“The club was surprised to learn of Ryan’s anti-doping rule violation and does not condone any use of drugs in the sport. We pride ourselves on the level of care and commitment to educate players.

“All our players complete education modules to understand their commitment to a clean sport. Our staff have also completed the ‘clean sport advisors’ course and we work very hard to support players with the RFL support and guidance.”