South Africa prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye is banned for 18 months after breaching World Anti-Doping Agency rules, according to multiple reports. The suspension rules him out of the next Rugby World Cup, which is set to be held in 2027. The BBC reports the ban is in line with an anti-doping ruling that determines the length of suspension and consequences for the player. Stuff.co.nz adds that Ntlabakanye is the third South Africa international to receive a suspension for taking a prohibited substance since the 2023 World Cup win. The Independent also reports that the 18-month ban will prevent him from participating in the upcoming tournament. Taken together, the sources state that the ban follows a finding of an anti-doping rule violation, establishes an 18-month period of ineligibility, and results in Ntlabakanye missing the Rugby World Cup.