When Kagiso Rabada departed from the IPL on April 3, his team Gujarat Titans said he had returned home to deal with a personal matter and did not indicate if or when he would return to the IPL to re-join his team.
South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada during the ICC Champions Trophy
It has since been understood that Rabada is serving a provisional suspension after testing positive for recreational drug use. This has been confirmed by Cricket South Africa:
Kagiso Rabada
Cricket South Africa (CSA) can confirm that Proteas Men right arm fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has returned an adverse analytical finding for the use of a prohibited substance. 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.
In a statement through the South African Cricketers Association, Rabada said:
Kagiso Rabada
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.
Kagiso Rabada
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. I am serving a provisional suspension and I am looking forward to returning to the game I love playing.
Kagiso Rabada
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 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.
Kagiso Rabada
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.
Kagiso Rabada
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.
Rabada has been a key figure for South Africa. He has taken 327 Test wickets in 70 test matches, 168 wickets in 106 one day internationals and 71 wickets in 65 T20 internationals.
