Irish sprinter Steven Colvert handed two-year ban

Irish sprinter Steven Colvert has been handed a two-year ban by the Irish Sports Council.

Last June, it was revealed that Colvert had tested positive for EPO, despite the banned substance offering more assistance to an endurance sport rather than shorter distances.

However, after a 'B' sample also came back positive, the governing body has suspended its 200m national champion, with the restriction being backdated to the time of the positive test.

The athlete has 21 days to appeal the decision.