KUALA LUMPUR: National sepak takraw officials have chosen to remain tight-lipped over a recent drug test evasion issue by the sepak takraw squad.
It was reported earlier that a total of six players and three officials have been indefinitely suspended by the International Sepak Takraw Federation (Istaf) for skipping a drug test at the King’s Cup World Sepak Takraw Championships in Bangkok last month.
Sepak Takraw Association of Malaysia (STAM) president Datuk Ahmad Ismail and national head coach Abdul Talib Ahmad, who was present with the squad during the tournament in Bangkok, has declined to comment or disclose the names of the individuals involved.
The former, however, said a statement will be issued to the media when STAM is ready.
“We (STAM) are currently meeting to discuss the issue. We will release a statement either this evening or tomorrow morning at latest,” said Ahmad, when contacted.
It is believed the incident is related to the national squad boycotting the second match in their team event final against hosts Thailand. The team claimed judging in the opening match was bias.
Under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) regulations, evading drug testing is a serious offence and it is clearly stated under WADA code article 2.3. Those found guilty face up to four years suspension.