South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is all set to make a comeback for the Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025 following the completion of a one-month suspension for testing positive for a recreational drug. Rabada had initially withdrawn from the tournament citing personal reasons but later revealed the suspension was due to a positive drug test during the SA20 tournament in January 2025.
Suspension and Treatment Details
Rabada tested positive for a “substance of abuse” during a SA20 match between MI Cape Town and Durban Super Giants on January 21, 2025.
The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) notified him of the adverse finding on April 1, 2025, and imposed a provisional suspension.
The standard suspension for such substances is three months but can be reduced to one month if the athlete completes a treatment and education program.
Rabada completed the required treatment program, including two sessions of substance abuse education, leading to the reduction of his suspension to one month.
Return to IPL and Future Prospects
Following the completion of his suspension, Rabada has been cleared to play for Gujarat Titans in the IPL playoffs and is expected to be available for South Africa’s World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s in June 2025.
Gujarat Titans’ Director of Cricket Vikram Solanki confirmed that all procedures were followed properly and Rabada has expressed deep regret over the incident.
Rabada has stated his commitment to returning to cricket with renewed passion and dedication, acknowledging the support from his team, agent, and legal counsel during this difficult period.
Despite the controversy, Rabada remains one of the premier fast bowlers in world cricket, with over 327 Test wickets to his name, and his return is expected to bolster both Gujarat Titans and the South African national team.
Impact on Gujarat Titans
Rabada played two matches for Gujarat Titans earlier in IPL 2025, taking two wickets before his suspension.
The franchise bought him for INR 10.75 crore in the mega auction held in November 2024.
His return is timely as Gujarat Titans prepare for the crucial playoff phase of the tournament.
FAQs
1. Why was Kagiso Rabada suspended during IPL 2025?
Rabada tested positive for a recreational drug during the SA20 tournament in January 2025, leading to a provisional suspension by SAIDS.
2. How long was Rabada suspended?
He served a one-month suspension after completing a substance abuse treatment program, which reduced the standard three-month ban.
3. Is Kagiso Rabada available for Gujarat Titans now?
Yes, after completing his suspension and treatment, Rabada is cleared to play for Gujarat Titans in the IPL playoffs.
4. Will Rabada be available for South Africa’s international matches?
He is expected to be available for South Africa’s World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s in June 2025.
5. How has Rabada responded to the suspension?
Rabada has expressed deep regret, apologized to fans, and committed to returning to cricket with renewed focus and dedication.
Kagiso Rabada’s return marks a significant boost for Gujarat Titans as they head into the IPL playoffs and for South Africa’s national team ahead of major international fixtures. Despite the setback, Rabada’s professionalism and talent remain unquestioned, and his comeback will be closely watched by cricket fans worldwide.