Russian ice hockey player has 2-year doping ban cut

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This May 24, 2014 file photo shows Russia forward Danis Zaripov, bottom, being challenged by Sweden forward Joakim Lindstrom during a semifinal match at the Ice Hockey World Championship in Minsk, Belarus. The International Ice Hockey Federation has slashed a doping ban given to Russian forward Zaripov from two years to six months. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP/Darko Bandic, file

ZURICH – The International Ice Hockey Federation has slashed a doping ban given to Russian forward Danis Zaripov from two years to six months.

He’s eligible to play again from Thursday.

Zaripov, a Russian Olympian in 2010, was suspended in July for taking the banned substance pseudoephedrine.

However, the IIHF says it has reached a settlement with Zaripov, who filed an appeal. The IIHF agreed to cut the suspension. Since it’s dated from May 23, that means Zaripov will be eligible again on Thursday.

The IIHF says its decision is “based on extensive documentary and expert evidence that was unavailable” this year.

Zaripov has previously told Russian media he was in contact with the St. Louis Blues about a move to the NHL, where his ban isn’t valid.

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Abbey Westbury

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