Vadim Fedchuk and Mikhail Burlutskiy gave positive tests after representing their country in a Rugby League World Cup qualifying match against Italy on November 4 last year.

Following a meeting of the Rugby League International Federation (RLIF) Anti-Doping Tribunal, Fedchuk was handed a four year ban after his test showed traces of Drostanolone, 19-norandrosterone, clenbuterol and chorionic gonadotrophin.

Burlutskiy has been given a two year ban after testing positive for Methylhexaneamine, a stimulant on the World Anti-Doping Association prohibited list.

The player claimed he had not intended to the drug and that it was part of a supplement he took.

His ban will run until November 3, 2018 while his team-mate is suspended until January 5, 2021.

The match between Russia and Italy finished 76-0 in favour of the latter and was played in Leigh, Great Britain.

The tests were conducted by UK Anti-Doping.

This year’s World Cup is due to take place in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea between October 26 and December 2.

Australia are the reigning champions after beating New Zealand 34-2 in the 2013 final held in Old Trafford in Manchester.