The Professional Rugby Players' Association has claimed the 'Bloodgate' scandal has left an "indelible stigma" on the game.
Hopley claims scandal has left an 'indelible stigma' on the game
The Professional Rugby Players' Association has claimed the 'Bloodgate' scandal has left an "indelible stigma" on the game.
Former Harlequins director of rugby Dean Richards was suspended for three years for his role in the affair, which saw winger Tom Williams fake a blood injury in the Heineken Cup quarter-final defeat to Leinster in April.
Former Quins physio was banned for two years, while Williams had his suspension cut from 12 to four months following his appeal.
And PRA chief executive Damian Hopley insist there is no place in rugby for "orchestrated or fabricated cheating".
He said: "We are grateful to the ERC disciplinary panel that Tom's 12-month ban has been reduced on appeal, but the aftermath of this episode has left an indelible stigma on the professional game.
Pressure
"Tom is a fine young man of good character, even though he is guilty of a serious error of judgment, albeit under instruction from his employer.
"He has been under tremendous pressure since the original incident in April, but his determination to tell the truth and attempt to undo the damage done to himself, his family and the image of the game speaks volumes for the enormous remorse he feels.
"The players have an increasing responsibility to act as role models for the sport, and must take a leading role in restoring the sport's damaged image and integrity.
"By continuing to invest in our world class education programmes the PRA will work tirelessly to support our members and ensure there can be no repeat of this incident.
"There is no place for orchestrated or fabricated cheating in rugby and the players welcome today's findings as an overdue wake up call and very strong deterrent."
