Kagiso Rabada cleared for IPL after completing doping suspension

Kagiso Rabada (PIc: AFP)

South African pace ace Kagiso Rabada has been cleared to return to competitive cricket after completing a substance abuse treatment program, following a suspension for the use of a prohibited recreational drug. His reinstatement makes him available for selection in Gujarat Titans' upcoming IPL 2025 clash against Mumbai Indians on Tuesday at the Wankhede Stadium.

The 29-year-old fast bowler had been representing MI Cape Town in the SA20 league when he failed a doping test conducted on January 2, shortly after their match against the Durban Super Giants. Rabada was formally notified of the adverse result on April 1, during his stint with the Gujarat Titans in the ongoing IPL season.

At the time, the franchise released a brief statement announcing Rabada's departure to South Africa to address 'an important personal matter', without disclosing details or specifying a timeline for his return.

According to ESPNcricinfo, the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) has confirmed that Rabada has since completed an education and awareness programme aimed at preventing future incidents of substance abuse. He is now eligible to resume professional cricket and could return to the field as early as Wednesday in Gujarat's high-stakes fixture against the five-time champions Mumbai Indians.

Instances of doping violations in cricket have seen varied responses from national boards. For example, in 2024, Zimbabwe Cricket handed four-month suspensions and salary fines to Wessly Madhevere and Brandon Mavuta after they tested positive for recreational drugs. However, ESPNcricinfo reports that Cricket South Africa is unlikely to take any further disciplinary action against Rabada.

On Saturday, Rabada released a public statement, expressing deep regret over the incident and acknowledging the responsibilities that come with being an international athlete.

"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," he stated. "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."

Before his suspension, Rabada had featured in two matches for the Titans this season, picking up two wickets at an average of 41.50 and an economy rate of 10.38.