Proteas Fast Bowler Kagiso Rabada Suspended After Testing Positive for Recreational Drug
South African cricket star Kagiso Rabada has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for a banned recreational substance during the 2025 SA20 tournament.
The revelation explains his sudden return from the Indian Premier League (IPL) in April, where he had been playing for the Gujarat Titans.
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Early IPL Exit Linked to Positive Drug Test
The 29-year-old was playing for the Gujarat Titans when he abruptly returned to South Africa, initially citing “personal reasons.”
However, a recent statement from the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) has revealed that Rabada had tested positive for a prohibited recreational drug during the 2025 SA20 tournament.
This test result is what ultimately led to his withdrawal from the IPL and triggered the provisional suspension.
Rabada Issues Public Apology
Rabada addressed the situation in a statement released via SACA, where he expressed deep remorse for his actions and acknowledged the gravity of the privilege to represent his country.
He also confirmed that the substance in question was a recreational drug, not a performance enhancer.
“As has been reported, I recently returned to South Africa from participating in the IPL for personal reasons. This was due to my returning an adverse analytical finding for the use of a recreational drug.
I am deeply sorry to all those that I have let down. I will never take the privilege of playing cricket for granted. This privilege is much larger than me. It goes beyond my personal aspirations.”
He expressed hope for a return to cricket soon.
“I am serving a provisional suspension, and I am looking forward to returning to the game I love playing.”
CSA Responds to Incident
Cricket South Africa (CSA) released a separate statement confirming Rabada’s positive test and emphasizing their zero-tolerance approach toward drug use.
“The incident is regrettable. However, Rabada has reassured CSA and his fans of his commitment to upholding professional standards,” CSA noted.
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