Proteas Cricketer Kagiso Rabada Hit With Suspension Over Recreational Drug Use

Proteas fast-bowler Kagiso Rabada has been suspended from the Indian Premier League (IPL) after a “recreational drug” was found in his system by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS).

Rabada returned to South Africa from the IPL last month, having played only two matches for the Gujarat Titans, who released a statement that Rabada was returning home for a “significant personal matter”.

Rabada issued a statement on Saturday saying that he is “deeply sorry”, but did not deny using a recreational drug in his statement.

“As has been reported, I recently returned to South Africa from participating in the IPL for personal reasons,” Rabada said in the statement. “This was due to my returning an adverse analytical finding for the use of a recreational drug.

Rabada has confirmed that he is currently serving a provisional suspension, however, the duration of the suspension has not been disclosed. SAIDS told Daily Maverick that they will release a statement on Monday to clarify the details.

The Proteas player said he was looking forward to returning “to the game I love playing” and that he received crucial support from those closest around him. “I couldn’t have gone through this alone. I’d like to thank my agent, CSA (Cricket South Africa), 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.”

Criscket South Africa released a statement on Saturday confirming that Rabada violated an anti-doping rule, calling it “regrettable”.

“The incident is regrettable, however, Rabada has reassured CSA and his fans of his commitment to upholding professional standards and has restated his passion to the sport of cricket and the country he represents with purpose,” CSA said.

“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.”

It’s still unclear what recreational drug Rabada actually took.

Players getting caught using performance drugs face much harsher punishment. The longest suspension of four years would apply if the substance is deemed to have been used intentionally in competition to enhance performance.

Rabada is South Africa’s leading fast bowler. He has taken 327 wickets in 70 Tests and is expected to play a key role for South Africa in the World Test Championship final against Australia starting at Lord’s in London on June 11.

Let’s hope this incident doesn’t spoil what is shaping up to be a legendary career for the young oke.

[Source: Daily Maverick & EWN]

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