A Junior Springbok has been implicated in a doping scandal just before the Sanzaar U20 Rugby Championship in Gqeberha, testing positive for an anabolic steroid. Reports have surfaced that prop Kai Pratt, aged 18, is the player involved, having failed a drug test on April 10. In response to the findings, Pratt has opted for the analysis of a B-sample, as the disciplinary proceedings are just beginning.
The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (Saids) CEO Khalid Galant confirmed the ongoing situation. "The athlete has received a notice of allegation that a substance was found in his system," Galant explained. He added, "It was an anabolic steroid and the athlete has requested a B-sample to be tested."
"A date still needs to be set for that process and the athlete hasn’t decided whether they’ll contest the allegation or the charge,"
Galant further clarified that no hearing has been scheduled yet, nor has any decision been made. "No hearing has been set or decision has been rendered, and ban only comes into place when a player has been charged and has pleaded guilty."
The outcome of the B-sample analysis will be crucial in determining whether the matter escalates to a formal hearing. Pratt, who was part of the SA U18 team last year and attended the Springboks' first alignment camp of 2026, was contracted with the Sharks. Unfortunately, he was sidelined from this year’s Junior World Championship due to a foot injury incurred during a match against Argentina U20 in Gqeberha on April 27.
This development is a significant setback for the young prop, whose career was on an upward trajectory following his participation in significant rugby events and alignment with national teams. The resolution of this case will be closely watched, as it has implications not only for Pratt’s future but also for the integrity of the sport.
This article covers the ongoing investigation into doping allegations involving a Junior Springbok player and does not imply guilt until all legal and procedural avenues have been explored and concluded.