RFU chief: Stevens can be lesson

Rugby Football Union chairman Martin Thomas hopes Matt Stevens' fall from grace via drugs will help deter other sportsmen from such temptations.

Bath and England prop Stevens, 26, can expect a lengthy ban after testing positive for a recreational substance - and subsequently admitting he has developed a drug problem.

Thomas admits Stevens' revelations have come as a shock to his sport - but he insists rugby will do its best to help rehabilitate one of its "family". "We have a zero-tolerance policy on drugs, and I would hope other sports adopt the same attitude," Thomas spelled out on BBC Radio 5 Live.

He added the RFU makes no distinction between drugs taken socially or to improve performance, saying: "It was completely unacceptable to the RFU. People within the RFU felt disappointed and let down," he added.

"There is no difference between (performance)-enhancing or recreational (drugs).

"You may get away with it one week - but you will get caught. If you want to stay in any sport, the answer is don't touch it (drugs)."

There is, however, an evident sympathy for the well-liked Stevens.

"We are dealing with a charming young man, who has a huge amount going for him," Thomas points out.

"He put out a very honest statement. It is disappointment, rather than anger, which is tempered by sadness - because he is such a nice guy.

"He is part of the rugby family. The crown may have slipped, but we will gather round and help one of our family."