Russell cleared to play in World T20

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Russell likely to face ban after violating "anti-doping whereabouts" code

Andre Russell, the West Indian all-rounder, could face a suspension of a possible 24 months for violating the "anti-doping whereabouts" code, according to the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission (JADCO). Russell, who is a part of West Indies' World Twenty20 squad, has failed to appear for three drug tests in the last 12 months, which equates to a failed test under doping laws.

The Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission (JADCO) has appointed a panel to hear Russell's case. "We received notification of Russell's violation about two weeks ago and I've appointed a panel to hear his case," Kent Pantry, JADCO's independent disciplinary panel chairman, was quoted as saying by Reuters.

As per the anti-doping commission rules, athletes must make their whereabouts known to local anti-doping agencies in order to conduct the tests.

Russell's good show in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2015-16 and the inaugural season of Pakistan Super League (PSL) has made him one of the key members in the West Indian side for the upcoming World T20 in India. With the likes of Sunil Narine (correcting his bowling action), Kieron Pollard (recovering from knee injury) and Darren Bravo (concentrating on Test cricket) having pulled out of the World Cup squad, Russell's suspension could prove to be a major dent to West Indies' World T20 hopes.

Russell likely to face ban after violating "anti-doping whereabouts" code - Cricbuzz

 

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RE: Russell likely to face ban

Andre Russell cleared to play in World T20

West Indies have received a boost prior to their World Twenty20 campaign after Andre Russell was cleared to play in the tournament with the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission clearing the all-rounder for the time being, saying they would not suspend him with a hearing pending into his "anti-doping whereabouts" violation.

Russell missed three doping tests within a 12-month span, which equates to failing a dope test, and faces the possibility of a 24-month suspension from cricket if found guilty.

World anti-doping agency rules state that athletes need to keep their local anti-doping agency informed about where they will be for at least one hour each day to facilitate the tests.

"The Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission has referred the matter regarding Mr Andre Russell to the Independent Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel," JADCO executive director Carey Brown said on Friday (March 4). "The Commission is awaiting a date for the hearing. Mr Russell has not been provisionally suspended."

The panel, chaired by Kent Pantry, JADCO independent disciplinary panel chairman, in all likelihood won't set a hearing date until long after April 3, when the WT20 concludes.

Thus, Russell is set to be available for West Indies' opening match in the Super 10 stage against England in Mumbai on March 16.

Andre Russell cleared to play in World T20 - Cricbuzz