Munster and IRFU release statement on Gerbrandt Grobler

Munster and the IRFU have released a statement regarding South African Gerbrandt Grobler, showing their support for the player who has served a two year ban for the use of a banned substance.

The 26-year-old lock is in line for his Pro 14 debut on Saturday, having been named on the bench for the visit of Zebre to Thomond Park.

The statement in full:

In relation to Gerbrandt Grobler’s selection for the province, Munster Rugby and the IRFU wish to reiterate that Gerbrandt, as a member of the Munster squad and living by our values, will continue to be considered for selection during his time with the province, once deemed fit.

While some hold the view that rugby should provide no road-back for those that have taken a banned substance in the past, it would not be within the spirit and values of rugby to turn its back on every person that ever made a bad decision, having made restitution.

Irish Rugby is recognised as operating one of the most stringent testing environments of any rugby nation with a zero tolerance approach to doping in the sport. The province and Irish Rugby are fully supportive of all WADA and World Rugby anti-doping policies.

Gerbrandt Grobler served a two-year ban from rugby and returned to play for Racing 92 in November 2016 as per the process set out by World Rugby.