One of South Africa’s saddest rugby stories involves Aphiwe Dyantyi. He once ranked among the brightest young stars in the game.
At the start of Rassie Erasmus’ era, selectors backed Dyantyi. He entered a refreshed Springbok squad with high expectations. In his first Test season, he scored six tries in 13 matches.
Soon after, he claimed the 2018 World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year award. He joined an elite list of past and future winners. Many believed a long international career awaited him.
Promising Career Derailed
However, events soon changed his trajectory dramatically. Dyantyi tested positive for three banned substances. All substances appeared on the World Anti-Doping Agency list.
As a result, he missed the 2019 Rugby World Cup. He then served a four-year suspension. Those years coincided with his expected peak.
After his ban, he attempted to rebuild his career. He had spells with the Sharks and later the Bulls. However, time away clearly affected his performance levels. Now 31, he faces a very different rugby landscape.
A New Chapter in France
Although contracted to the Bulls until June, he secured an early release. He will now join French third-division side Narbonne until season’s end.
This move offers him another opportunity to compete professionally. However, it remains unclear whether he can regain top form. For now, his days at rugby’s highest level appear over.
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The post From Breakthrough to Banned Springbok: Former star heads overseas appeared first on iHarare News.
