Rugby league dope scandal

Australian officials began issuing formal allegations of possible anti-doping violations to 17 Cronulla Sharks rugby league players yesterday.

The allegations are the result of an Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (Asada) investigation into the possible use of supplements, including the banned peptides.

"Asada today [yesterday] commenced issuing notices to current and former players from the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks," Asada said.

"A total of 17 notices are to be issued and relate to the use of prohibited substances during the 2011 season."