Kagiso Rabada suspended after drug test: 'I regret my actions'

Gulf News

05-05-2025

Dubai: South African pacer Kagiso Rabada left Gujarat Titans midway through Indian Premier League Season 18 citing personal reasons. But on Saturday, the 29-year-old revealed he is serving a provisional suspension after testing positive for a recreational drug — and said he regrets his actions.
'I am deeply sorry to all those that I have let down,' Rabada said in a statement released by the South African Cricketers' Association (SACA), the country's players' union.
Playing with passion
'I will never take the privilege of playing cricket for granted. This privilege is much larger than me. It goes beyond my personal aspirations.
'I am serving a provisional suspension and I am looking forward to returning to the game I love playing.
'I couldn't have gone through this alone. I'd like to thank my agent, Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Gujarat Titans for their support. I'd also like to 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.
'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.'
Adverse finding during SA20
Rabada played just two matches for Gujarat Titans — who signed him for Rs107.5 million — before abruptly withdrawing from the IPL. While the initial explanation cited 'personal issues', Rabada confirmed that he returned home after an 'adverse analytical finding' was reported from a drug test conducted during the SA20 League earlier this year.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) also released a statement confirming the development.
'Cricket South Africa (CSA) can confirm that Proteas Men's right-arm fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has returned an adverse analytical finding for the use of a prohibited substance. The incident is regrettable. However, Rabada has reassured CSA and his fans of his commitment to upholding professional standards and has restated his passion for the sport of cricket and the country he represents with purpose,' CSA said.
Pace spearhead with a proud record
'CSA is fully committed to drug-free sport and reminds cricket players — both professional and amateur — of the importance of adhering to all regulations. We are steadfast in our support to all players in this regard,' the release added.
Rabada underlined his status as South Africa's pace spearhead and one of the world's finest bowlers when he became the fastest to reach 300 Test wickets in terms of balls bowled, achieving the milestone in October last year.