From Rugby Heroes to Cautionary Tales: The Downfall of Two International Stars

Rugby has seen its share of fallen stars, but some stories are more shocking than others. Here are two players whose careers took a devastating turn.

2. Merab Sharikadze

Merab Sharikadze captained Georgia, earned 104 Test caps, and famously led the Lelos to a historic victory over Wales in Cardiff in 2022. His reputation suffered a devastating blow in 2026 following World Rugby and WADA’s “Operation Obsidian” investigation.

Sharikadze received an 11-year suspension after DNA evidence showed he had provided urine samples for teammates on multiple occasions as part of a sample-swapping scheme. Investigators found no evidence that the scheme was intended to hide performance-enhancing drugs, instead concluding it was used to conceal substances including cannabis and tramadol.

The sanction is one of the longest ever handed down in rugby and effectively ended his involvement in the sport.

1. Mohamed Haouas

Mohamed Haouas appeared destined to become a long-term fixture in France’s front row after earning 16 Test caps and helping Les Bleus win the 2022 Grand Slam. Instead, his international career unravelled because of repeated off-field legal issues.

In 2023, Haouas was convicted of domestic violence after assaulting his wife in public and received a one-year prison sentence. The conviction prompted Clermont to terminate his contract, while the French Rugby Federation made clear he would no longer be considered for international selection. He had also previously received convictions relating to separate incidents earlier in his life.

Haouas has since resumed his club career with Biarritz before returning to Montpellier, but his hopes of adding to his France caps are widely regarded as over, with his off-field conduct eclipsing what once looked like an outstanding international career.