Rising Waratah suspended for using ADHD medication without exemption

The NSW Waratahs are standing by Henry O’Donnell after the talented centre accepted an 18-month ban for an anti-doping violation.

The former junior Wallaby’s ineligibility started on July 1 last year in connection with an Anti-Doping Rule Violation issued under the Australian National Anti-Doping Policy.

The sanction as determined by Sports Integrity Australia relates to O’Donnell testing positive for D-amphetamine and ritalinic acid – two substances associated with ADHD medication – during an in-competition doping control test conducted on May 9 last year without a therapeutic use exemption.

The Waratahs and Rugby Australia note the SIA finding that the violation was not intentional and took place in a context unrelated to sport performance.

O’Donnell now holds a therapeutic use exemption for the medication that he has been prescribed to treat his ADHD, and will be eligible to return to play from January 1, 2027.

“Henry made an error of judgment and has paid a heavy price for that misstep,” Waratahs high-performance director B-J Mather said.

“The club has supported Henry throughout the process and we look forward to his return to Daceyville.”

The 23-year-old O’Donnell has played 12 games for the Waratahs after making five appearances for the Western Force in his debut Super Rugby Pacific season in 2024.