Kagiso Rabada cleared to play after serving one-month drug ban

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South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has completed a one-month suspension for recreational drug use and is eligible to return to professional cricket.

The suspension stemmed from a positive doping test conducted on 21 January 2025, after an SA20 match between MI Cape Town and Durban Super Giants.

Rabada was informed of the result on 1 April while participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Gujarat Titans.

He subsequently returned to South Africa on 3 April, citing personal reasons.

Under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) guidelines, the standard suspension for such an offence is three months.

However, Rabada’s ban was reduced to one month after he completed a substance abuse treatment programme approved by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS).

The programme included two sessions focused on education and awareness to prevent future substance abuse.

Rabada expressed deep remorse for his actions, stating, “I couldn’t have gone through this alone,” and thanked his agent, Cricket South Africa (CSA), the Gujarat Titans, the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA), and his legal team for their support during the ordeal.

Drawn criticism

Despite the completion of his suspension, the handling of Kagiso Rabada’s case has drawn criticism.

Former Australian captain Tim Paine criticised the lack of transparency, stating, “It stinks. Taking drugs -recreational or performance-enhancing – is not a personal issue that can just be hidden for a month.”

Paine emphasised the need for public accountability in such matters.

Rabada is now available for selection in upcoming matches, including the Gujarat Titans’ next IPL game and South Africa’s squad for the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s, scheduled for 11-15 June 2025.