Christian Malcom has made a strong defence of Rhys Williams after the 400m hurdler was ruled out of the Commonwealth Games due to an alleged drugs violation.

The former British sprinter, who regularly competed alongside his fellow Welshman before retiring from athletics, is certain that Williams would not have taken a banned substance to gain an advantage over rivals.

"I know Rhys wouldn't have knowingly taken drugs," Malcolm is quoted as saying by BBC Sport. "He's had his difficulties, his ups and downs through injuries, and he's fought back very well. So for him to have a blow like this in his career is just sad.

"Rhys is a proud guy. He is always someone who's been anti-drugs."

Williams is the second Welsh athlete to be charged for a drugs violation this summer after Gareth Warburton prior to the Games.