South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has confirmed he tested positive for a recreational drug during the SA20 tournament earlier this year and is currently serving a provisional suspension.
Rabada left the Indian Premier League (IPL) on April 3, with his franchise Gujarat Titans initially stating he had returned home to attend to a “significant personal matter.” No mention was made of the drug-related issue at the time.
According to ESPNcricinfo, the transgression occurred during the SA20 in January-February, where Rabada played for MI Cape Town. He has not played since March 29, but sources say his return to cricket is imminent.
In a statement issued through the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA), Rabada expressed remorse for his actions.
“This was due to my returning an adverse analytical finding for the use of a recreational drug,” Rabada said. “I am deeply sorry to all those that I have let down. I will never take the privilege of playing cricket for granted.”
He added that he is committed to returning to the sport with renewed focus and thanked his support system, including his agent, Cricket South Africa (CSA), Gujarat Titans, and his legal team.
“This moment will not define me,” Rabada said. “I will keep doing what I have always done — working hard and playing with passion and devotion to my craft.”
The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS), which is expected to release a formal statement next week, is handling the case. SAIDS is a signatory to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and must adhere to its protocols regarding sanctions.
Cases of recreational drug use among cricketers have been rare. In a similar case, New Zealand’s Doug Bracewell served a reduced one-month ban after testing positive for cocaine in 2023.
Despite the suspension, sources close to CSA say Rabada is not expected to miss any upcoming fixtures, including the World Test Championship final against Australia in June.
#South #Africas #Rabada #suspended #testing #positive #recreational #drug
