Northants' Lynn served drugs ban after Blast finals day

Chris Lynn, a former Northants Steelbacks batter, tested positive for cocaine during the T20 Blast Finals Day this year, according to the Cricket Regulator. The 36-year-old Australian cricketer received a one-month suspension for his positive drug test, which has been served. Lynn's urine sample contained cocaine's metabolite benzoylecgonine.

The 39-year-old top-scorer in the semi-final match against Somerset, who contributed 39 runs, also scored four runs in the final against Hampshire at Edgbaston on July 18. He admitted to using cocaine in the week leading up to Finals Day, but claimed it was an out-of-competition violation unrelated to his performance. An expert appointed by the Regulator also agreed with his stance.

Lynn was subjected to a substance abuse treatment program, which reduced his potential suspension from three to one month. Northants received no sanction for Lynn's positive test, but the Regulator has asked the county for a response. The Cricket Regulator, an independent body established in December 2023, is responsible for monitoring compliance with the sport's regulations.