Kagiso Rabada Faces Provisional Suspension Over Drug Use During IPL

Kagiso Rabada's Suspension Shakes IPL Season

Kagiso Rabada, renowned as one of the world's top fast bowlers, revealed on Saturday that he has left the current Indian Premier League (IPL) season due to a provisional suspension linked to the use of a prohibited recreational substance.

The South African bowler departed from the league last month after participating in two matches for the Gujarat Titans, initially citing personal reasons. The Titans had acquired him for a sum of Rs 10.75 crore.

As he approaches his 30th birthday later this month, Rabada issued a statement via the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA).

In his statement, he acknowledged, "As reported, I returned to South Africa from the IPL for personal reasons, which stemmed from an adverse analytical finding related to a recreational drug." He expressed deep regret for his actions.

Rabada continued, "I am currently under provisional suspension and eagerly anticipate my return to the sport I cherish."

The statement did not specify the particular recreational drug involved.

Sources from Cricket South Africa (CSA) indicated that Rabada was tested during the SA20 League held in January and February, where he represented MI Cape Town.

This situation raises concerns about his availability for the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia scheduled for June.

According to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) regulations, penalties for recreational drug use can range from three months to four years.

Substances classified as 'Substances of Abuse' include cocaine, heroin, MDMA, and cannabis, which WADA acknowledges may be consumed outside of competition for non-performance-related reasons.

While the maximum ban for such substances is four years, athletes can potentially reduce their suspension to three months if they demonstrate that the use was out-of-competition and not performance-enhancing.

If an athlete agrees to a treatment program sanctioned by the South African Anti-Doping authority, the ban could be further reduced to two months.

In cases where the drug is used during competition but is proven to be unrelated to performance, a two-year ban may be imposed, classifying the violation as non-intentional.

Rabada, who has participated in 241 international matches for South Africa across all formats, including 70 Tests, expressed gratitude towards his country's cricket board and the Gujarat Titans for their support during this challenging time.

"I could not have navigated this situation alone. I want to extend my thanks to my agent, CSA, and Gujarat Titans for their backing. I also appreciate SACA and my legal team for their advice and support. Most importantly, I am grateful to my friends and family for their understanding and love," he stated.

Rabada is determined that this incident will not define his career, asserting, "Going forward, this moment will not define me. I will continue to work hard and play with the passion and dedication that I always have."