According to Malay Mail Online, Kumar, who has played for Tenaga Nasional Berhad Hockey Club and India’s Uttar Pradesh Wizards, failed the drug test during the Asia Cup in Dhaka two months ago.
In a press conference, Kumar denied taking the substance, which is an appetite suppressant and is mainly used in weight-loss supplements.
“I never take any outside supplements other than the ones that have been given by the National Sports Institute. Logically, as a hockey player, I do not need to lose weight. So why do I need to take the substance?”
Because Kumar was adamant about his lack of culpability, he refused to ask for the B sample to be tested, but appealed for a hearing.
“For me, it’s better to just go for a hearing, as I want to be involved at the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and World Cup next year,” he said.
The hearing is scheduled for next month. Kumar, who has represented Malaysia 295 times, faces a provisional two-year ban while waiting for it to be held.
Kumar called upon his fans to be mindful of the circumstances of his positive doping test.
“To the sports fans… do please bear in mind the substance is not to enhance performances,” he said.
There have been seven documented incidents of athletes who have been suspended for positive tests for sibutramine.