Kagiso Rabada has revealed that he is serving a provisional suspension from all forms of cricket after testing positive for a banned recreational drug.
The South African fast-bowler, Kagiso Rabada, has revealed that he is currently serving a provisional suspension, which led to his exit mid-way into the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League whilst representing the Gujarat Titans.
The 29-year-old pacer released a statement clarifying why he had exited the IPL, midway into the Gujarat Titans’ campaign. Shubman Gill, the GT captain, had mentioned earlier that they were hopeful of Rabada returning to the side in 10 days after his exit from the squad was announced on April 3, earlier last month.
“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,” he shared.
The details regarding the substance were not revealed, and the bowler apologised for his error and also revealed that he is serving a provisional suspension for the same. According to a report by ESPNCricinfo, it is suggested that the offence was committed during his SA20 campaign in 2025, where he represents MI Cape Town. The report also claims that the pacer is back in India but no official word has come out from GT.
“I am deeply sorry to all that I have let down. I will never take the privilege of playing cricket for granted. It goes beyond my personal aspirations,” he said in his statement.
“I am serving a provisional suspension, and I am looking forward to returning to the game I love playing,” he added.
“I couldn’t have gone through this alone. I’d like to thank my agent, CSA and Gujarat Titans for their support. I’d also thank SACA and my legal team for their guidance and counsel. Most importantly, I’d like to thank my friends and family for their understanding and love,” he shared.
“Moving forward, this moment will not define me. I will keep doing what I have always done, continuously working hard and playing with passion and devotion to my craft,” he added.
It remains to be seen how long his provisional ban lasts and when he will be back in action. Gujarat Titans are currently on track for a possible top-two finish despite their loss. South Africa, on the other hand, will hope that Rabada can return ahead of the World Test Championship final against Australia, set to be played at the Lord’s Cricket Ground on June 11-15, later next month.
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