Kagiso Rabada serving a provisional suspension for use of recreational drug
South Africa and Gujarat Titans pacer Kagiso Rabada has been provisionally banned following the use of a recreational drug, the player confirmed in a statement on Saturday.
“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,” Rabada said in a statement.
“I am deeply sorry to all those that I have let down. 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.”
Earlier this month, the 29-year-old returned home from the Gujarat Titans camp in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, initially citing personal reasons. He later issued a statement clarifying the circumstances of his departure.
“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 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,” Rabada added.
“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.”
Rabada conceded 41 runs for one wicket on debut with the Titans in the side’s IPL 2025 opening game defeat against Punjab Kings. In the second game, against Mumbai Indians, he recorded figures of 1 for 42.
He was acquired by Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2025 auction for Rs 10.75 crore.
