Dyantyi's positive mindset as doping hearing looms

NEWS: South Africa wing Aphiwe Dyantyi's ''heart is at peace" following his suspension after failing a drug test.

Two samples provided by the 25-year-old in July tested positive for three prohibited substances just a couple of months before he was set to compete for a place in the Springboks’ World Cup squad.

Dyantyi, who has been provisional suspension from all forms of rugby, faces a four-year ban if found guilty.

*Also read: Bok's B-sample tested postitive

Despite the very diffictult period, the Springbok wing revealed, in his first social media post since August, that he has been coping very well since the suspension and shared an uplifting message to all his followers.

“One of the happiest moments in life is when you find the courage to let go of what you cannot change.”

He added: “5 months later and not much has changed, except my battles and struggles empower and give me strength.

“In recent months I’ve found myself smiling more often, even when I’m sad I’m happy, even when feel like crying I find myself smiling. I believe my heart is at peace even though some days I still wake up feeling sad and hopeless at least I wake up wanting to live.

“If it weren’t for that [love & support of friends & family, messages of encouragement] life would be worthless, so thanks to everything and everyone that has shown me support.”

The 2018 World Rugby breakthrough player of the year chose to contest the charge in September where he will face a hearing before an independent tribunal panel, but no date is yet confirmed.

This was news that shocked the rugby world at the time, as Dyantyi seemingly had so much before him after surging onto the international scene in 2018.

Although he would only be 28 years of age when he returns if he were banned for four years, it would be very hard to reestablish himself again after so long out. Regardless of what the future holds for him, this is a positive response in what must be uncertain times.

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