The Return of SA Cricket Star Kagiso Rabada After Serving Suspension
South African cricket fans can rejoice as fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has completed his one-month suspension for recreational drug use. The suspension came after traces of benzoylecgonine (BZE), a metabolite of cocaine, were found in his urine sample, as reported by Sunday publication Rapport.
Rabada has since returned to action with his Indian Premier League team, Gujarat Titans. However, the IPL has been put on hold due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir issue, resulting in no matches being played since Thursday. Officials are set to convene on Sunday to determine the future of the tournament.
Rabada’s Drug Test During SA20
The incident unfolded during the SA20 tournament in January, where Rabada was one of 16 cricketers subjected to drug testing. Following the match between MI Cape Town and Durban’s Super Giants in Durban, Rabada provided a urine sample to the SA Institute for Drug-Free Sport (Saids), confirmed by CEO Khalid Galant.
Galant stated, “He was tested post-match, provided the sample, and it tested positive for a substance of abuse. In South Africa, positive cases in cricket related to this substance are rare. Internationally, the scenario may differ, but locally, we haven’t encountered many positive cases in recent years.”
Despite being given the option to have his B sample tested, Rabada opted not to pursue this avenue. Galant applauded his decision, stating, “It was a wise choice. If you are aware of your actions, it saves time and legal expenses.”
Looking ahead, Rabada is set to rejoin the Proteas Test team for their upcoming clash against Australia in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in London next month.
For more details, read the full story in Rapport.
