Hock facing two-year ban

Wigan second rower Gareth Hock faces a two-year ban after his B-sample tested positive for a banned substance.

The 25-year-old second rower has been suspended for the last fortnight after a urine sample was found to contain traces of Benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine.

Hock was tested following Wigan’s home win over Salford last month and was immediately suspended by the RFL.

A club statement said: Wigan Warriors have been informed by the RFL that Gareth Hock’s B:Sample has tested positive for Benzoylecgonine, as did the A:Sample.

“The case will now go before a National Anti-Doping Panel Tribunal for a verdict and the player’s Registration remains Suspended by the RFL until this time.

“The Club reiterates its position of deploring and condemning the use of drugs in sport including the use of so-called recreational drugs.

“There will be no further comment at this stage.”

The punishment for such offences falls in line with World Anti-Doping Agency regulations, which will mean a two-year ban for Hock.

The England international is under contract at Wigan until the end of 2011.