World Rugby in the headlines: anti-doping bans hit Georgia, and a big global series push; meanwhile tributes roll in for Scots legend Scott Hastings (d. aged 61).
World Rugby’s investigation has handed long bans to six Georgian players and a medical official, with more sanctions for the Georgian Rugby Union as part of what it calls the sport’s most extensive anti-doping probe. No evidence has surfaced of urine substitution to mask PED use, but there are credible findings of cannabis and tramadol concealment.
The rugby world mourns Scott Hastings, 61, a key figure in Scotland’s 1990 Grand Slam. Hastings has died after a battle with cancer. Tributes from teammates, clubs and public figures highlight his on-field prowess and charitable work.