Waratah's O'Donnell Receives 18-Month Ban for Doping Violation

Henry O'Donnell, a centre for the New South Wales Waratahs, has been banned for 18 months following an anti-doping violation linked to ADHD medication. The violation, deemed unintentional, occurred without a therapeutic exemption. O'Donnell is eligible to return to play on January 1, 2027.

New South Wales Waratahs centre Henry O'Donnell is facing an 18-month suspension from rugby following an anti-doping violation, confirmed by Rugby Australia. The suspension comes after O'Donnell tested positive for substances associated with ADHD medication, including D-amphetamine and ritalinic acid, during a competitive test in May 2025.

The anti-doping watchdog, Sports Integrity Australia, found the violation was not intentional and occurred without a therapeutic use exemption. Despite this setback, O'Donnell has since secured an exemption necessary for his prescribed ADHD treatment and is set to be eligible to return from January 1, 2027.

Waratahs' high-performance manager B-J Mather expressed support for O'Donnell, acknowledging the player's error of judgment but emphasizing the club's backing throughout the ordeal. Preparations are underway for O'Donnell's return to Daceyville post-suspension, marking a fresh start for the talented centre.