Gross misconduct.

Scotland international back-row John Hardie has been suspended for three months by Scottish Rugby for “gross misconduct” over alleged cocaine use.

Hardie was initially suspended back in October and his club Edinburgh released a statement on today confirming the ban which means he won’t be available for selection until January.

Hardie has apologised for the behaviour that led to his suspension after originally being included in Scotland’s squad for tests in November.

“Through my actions I feel I have let my club, my team-mates and the fans down. I want to acknowledge the support I have had from Edinburgh Rugby and Scottish Rugby in dealing with the issue,” Hardie said in a statement.

“I am now focused on putting myself in the best possible position to be considered for selection again.”

His ban starts from his initial suspension in October.