Pradeep Sangwan fails dope test

Pradeep Sangwan, the Delhi and Kolkata Knight Riders seamer, has failed a random dope test conducted during the 2013 season of the IPL, PTI has reported. Sangwan's 'A' sample has reportedly shown traces of banned substances, the nature of which can only be confirmed after the 'B' tests are done.

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has been informed about the tests by the BCCI, but any decision about the offence can only be taken once the results of the 'B' tests are available. Sangwan, is reportedly in the UK, undergoing treatment for a shoulder injury.

Random tests are conducted during the IPL, like in ICC tournaments. The BCCI, which doesn't come under the WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) or the NADA (National Anti-Doping Agency), follow their own anti-doping procedures.

*AN Sharma, Sangwan's first coach, said the problem could have arisen due to treatment Sangwan was receiving for a shoulder problem. "I immediately called him up and Pradeep explained to me what had happened. He had acute pain in his shoulder just before the IPL," Sharma told Mid-Day. "Since he had no time to consult or visit the BCCI doctor, he saw a local doctor, who gave him an injection. There was instant relief from the pain thereafter and he also managed to play the IPL."

Sharma also said players needed to be more aware of the substances they take while injured. "We have to start stressing this point to the players to be very vigilant about what they are consuming and where they are getting treated," Sharma said. "It is very important that they understand what substances are being injected into their body during a treatment."

Sangwan, 22, played only two matches for Knight Riders this season and failed to pick up a wicket. He made his first-class debut in 2007 and has played 38 matches for Delhi.

* July 19, 6.30am GMT This story has been updated with AN Sharma's quotes