Athletic performer from South Africa temporarily banned following a positive test for a leisure substance.
Rakin' Up Trouble: Kagiso Rabada's Temporary Exit from IPL 2025
The Party's Over for KG: SA Speedster Serves Suspension for Recreational Substance
In a unexpected twist, the South African fast bowling maestro, Kagiso Rabada, is currently sitting out the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to a provisional suspension. This announced absence comes after a positive test result for a banned recreational drug.
Rabada, having joined Gujarat Titans for a whopping INR 10.75 crore (approx. £958,000), graced the IPL pitch in just two matches, amassing eighty-three runs and bagging two wickets before the storm hit.
Initially, Gujarat Titans' skipper Shubman Gill communicated the hotshot's absence at the toss ahead of the GT vs RCB match, explaining it was due to personal reasons. However, on April 2, Rabada was spotted at the team's training sessionthe evening prior.
The following morning, Gujarat Titans announced Rabada's departure from the IPL, with a statement expressing no further details about the matter. As days turned into weeks, the suspense surrounding the reason behind his exit brewed.
One month later, South African news outlets reported the heart of the issue: Rabada had tested positive for a forbidden substance. In response, Rabada released a personal statement via the South African Cricketers' Association:
"As reports have revealed, I returned to South Africa from the ongoing IPL for personal reasons. This was the consequence of returning a negative analytical finding for a recreational drug.
"I regret profoundly my actions, which I realize I have let down many. I'll never take my opportunity to play cricket for granted, as it transcends my personal ambitions.
"I'm facing a provisional suspension and I'm eager to make my return to the sport I adore.
"I never faced these challenges 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 counsel. Most importantly, I extend my gratitude to my friends and family for their compassion and love.
"This incident will not define me. I plan to continue my hard work, playing with passion, and commitment to my craft."
The outcome of his suspension remains to be seen, with no specifics on length or timing available as of yet. As per ESPNcricinfo, Rabada's transgression occurred during the SA20 competition.
With the IPL ending May 25, and Rabada anticipated to represent South Africa in the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord's from June 11, we await updates on the duration and impact of this surprising incident on his career.
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See also:- IPL 2025- Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada's provisional suspension from IPL 2025 continues due to a positive test result for a banned recreational drug. The Gujarat Titans squad, for whom Rabada was acquired for INR 10.75 crore, initially listed his absence as personal reasons. On April 2, Rabada was seen at the team's training session, but the following day, he departed the IPL, with no further details disclosed. South African news outlets later reported that the substance in question was a forbidden recreational drug.
