Pradeep Sangwan banned for 18 months by BCCI Anti-Doping tribunal

8220;The anti-doping case initiated against the Player Pradeep Sangwan by the BCCI before the Anti-Doping Tribunal constituted under the BCCI Anti-Doping Code,was concluded on 1st October 2013,and the written Decision issued by the Anti-Doping Tribunal was received on 18th October 2013,8221; the BCCI said in a statement.

8220;The Tribunal has found that the Player has committed an Anti-Doping Violation under Article 2.1 of the Code for the presence of the Prohibited Substance Stanozolol,an Anabolic Steroid,8221; it added.

The tribunal heard him out on October 1 during which he claimed that he consumed the steroid accidentally when his gym instructor offered it to him as a remedy for fat reduction.

Sangwan is only the second cricketer in the history of IPL after Pakistani speedster Mohammed Asif to have been found guilty of consuming banned drugs.

8220;The Tribunal has declared the player ineligible for a period of 18 months,commencing on 6 May 2013 and expiring at midnight on 5 November 2014,from participating in any capacity in any event or activity other than authorised anti-doping education or rehabilitation programmes or competition authorised,organised or sanctioned by the BCCI or any of the other bodies referred to in Article 10.10.1 of the Rules,8221; the BCCI statement read.

Sangwan,who played a stellar role in India8217;s victorious U-19 World Cup campaign back in 2008 represented Kolkata Knight Riders during the last two editions of the IPL. He has taken 123 wickets in 38 first-class matches.

Sangwan,who hails from Najafgarh,played two matches in the IPL against Royal Challengers Bangalore and Sunrisers Hyderabad. He could not get a single wicket during the two games.