Cyclist Nguyen Truong Tai has denied using performance-enhancing drugs after being accused of doping by the International Cycling Union (UCI).

The Vietnamese cyclist said he was surprised when he heard the world cycling organisation make the allegation last week. The UCI claimed Tai used drugs during the Tour de Singkarak in Indonesia in June.

"I really don't know why this drug (prednistone) can be in my body because all of the medicines that I used were the same as my teammate's, and it was checked by my coaches and team doctors," said Tai, adding that he did not take any drugs before the Indonesian tournament.

Coach Nguyen Huy Hung of the national team also confirmed that all medicines and drugs given to athletes were carefully checked and had no prednistone. He said from the beginning of this year, athletes had taken part in different tournaments internationally but none had aroused any suspicions.

The UCI had asked Tai to send another sample of urine to be re-tested. If the positive result is confirmed, Tai would face a ban of two years at all international competitions.

Tai's performance in Indonesia was poor as he was eliminated after five stages. — VNS