BOA are to challenge the decision by the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada)

The BOA are to challenge the decision by the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) that the lifetime ban is ‘non-compliant’ with their code.

If the BOA are defeated it means cyclist David Millar and sprinter Dwain Chambers, who have previously served bans for drugs, will be available for selection for the British team at next year’s London Olympics.

Both the BOA and Wada are seeking for CAS to make a decision before the end of April next year.

Two QCs, Lord David Pannick – who led the Football Association’s appeal against Wayne Rooney’s three-match Euro 2012 ban last week – and Adam Lewis, will represent the BOA.

The presence of the heavyweight legal team reflects the challenge the BOA are facing.

The BOA’s appeal argues the lifetime ban is an issue about being eligible for Britain and not an extra sanction for doping.

The BOA said: ‘The presence of athletes who deliberately cheat within Team GB would damage team morale, atmosphere and cohesiveness. It would also damage the credibility and reputation of the team in the eyes of the athletes and the public.’

The BOA say the by-law has enjoyed the support of more than 90 per cent of British athletes since it was introduced in 1992.