Kefu cleared by ARU of doping offence

WALLABY centre Steve Kefu has been cleared by the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) of a doping offence after he took a steroid to treat a viral disorder.

Queensland’s Kefu withdrew from last week’s Super 12 opening round against New Zealand’s Otago Highlanders in Invercargill, which the Highlanders won 39-8.

“The ARU has announced that no action will be taken against Queensland Reds player Steve Kefu following his treatment for the viral disorder Bell’s palsy,” the ARU said. “Kefu was administered Prednisone in oral form, a prohibited substance when taken in competition, following expert medical opinion that the drug provided the player’s best chance of recovering from the rare form of facial paralysis.”

The Queensland Rugby Union advised the ARU of the treatment and the ARU conducted an investigation.

“The ARU has determined that there has been no breach of those anti-doping provisions,” the ARU commented.

The ARU has lifted a ban on Kefu which prevented the 24-year-old from playing last week.