An anti-doping report released today by the IRFU claims that there has been a 40 per cent increase in the numbers of players tested last season and that no players tested positive for a banned substance.

The increase in total test moves from 191 to 267 and the senior men's team were test 94 times in comparison to 28 times the year before, constituting a 240 per cent increase. This jump comes in the wake of the Rugby World Cup at the end of last year.

The total testing statistics for the season shows a jump of 191 to 267

At RWC15, the senior team were in-competition tested on 24 times.  A total of 468 samples were taken from across the 20 participating nations – 200 in-competition tests and 268 out-of-competition tests.

"The IRFU has a zero tolerance policy to cheating within rugby and is committed to delivering ongoing education in the area of anti-doping," said IRFU Chief Executive, Philip Browne.

"Although rugby has a strong anti-doping track record it is important that we remain vigilant and demonstrate the core values of our game – integrity, respect and excellence.  We are grateful to Sport Ireland for their support, professionalism and expertise.  As a sport our message in clear – if you are doping there is no place for you in rugby."

The report claims there were no positive tests last season and for the previous three seasons