Kuala Lumpur, Nov 8 (IANS): The B sample of a Malaysian men's badminton player tested positive for banned anti-inflammatory dexamethasone and the player has been temporarily suspended, an official said Saturday.

Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) deputy president Norza Zakaria made the announcement following widespread reports naming World No.1 Lee Chong Wei, reports Xinhua.

Lee reportedly flew to Norway to witness the second test this week. But Norza said the player could not be named pending due process, including a hearing of the Badminton World Federation (BWF).

"The result of the testing confirmed the existence of dexamethasone in the sample. We are still not at liberty to reveal the name of the player. I would like to inform you that we believe that this player is a very hard-working player and an exceptional individual," Norza said Saturday.

He confirmed the player in question had denied taking the drug on purpose but received treatment in July for a thigh injury. Lee, 32, received stem cell treatment for a thigh injury in July.