South African pacer Kagiso Rabada has confirmed he is currently serving a provisional suspension after testing positive for a banned recreational drug. The 29-year-old’s statement comes weeks after he unexpectedly exited the 2025 Indian Premier League mid-season while representing Gujarat Titans.
Initially, Gujarat Titans’ captain Shubman Gill had expressed hope that Rabada would return within 10 days following his departure from the squad on April 3. However, Rabada has now clarified that his withdrawal was due to an “adverse analytical finding” related to the use of a recreational substance.
In a statement, Rabada said, “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.”
The specific substance involved has not been disclosed. Rabada acknowledged his mistake and issued an apology to fans, teammates, and stakeholders. “I am deeply sorry to all that I have let down. I will never take the privilege of playing cricket for granted. It goes beyond my personal aspirations,” he said.
According to a report by ESPNCricinfo, the offence is believed to have occurred during the 2025 SA20 season, where Rabada was playing for MI Cape Town. The report also suggests Rabada has returned to India, though Gujarat Titans have yet to release an official statement regarding his status.
“I am serving a provisional suspension, and I am looking forward to returning to the game I love playing,” Rabada added. He also expressed gratitude to those who supported him through this challenging period. “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 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.”
While the duration of Rabada’s suspension is yet to be confirmed, his absence is a significant blow to both Gujarat Titans in the IPL and South Africa’s national team. The Proteas will be hoping for his return ahead of the ICC World Test Championship Final against Australia, scheduled at Lord’s from June 11 to 15.
