South African pacer Kagiso Rabada has returned to India after being suspended earlier this year. He was suspended because he tested positive for a recreational substance during the SA20 league while representing MI Cape Town. The substance he consumed was not performance-enhancing, according to ESPNcricinfo.
When Rabada went back from the IPL on April 3, Gujarat Titans explained it as a "personal matter" and did not provide further information. Then, it was unclear whether he would come back or not. Subsequently, the South African Cricketers' Association confirmed that Rabada had been provisionally suspended following a drug test. They did not mention the substance or if the test was conducted during or outside competition.
Rabada himself released a statement, saying:
"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.
"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."
He also thanked everyone who stood by him by saying:
"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.
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."
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The official statement by Rabada:
Kagiso Rabada Returns India
Rabada was purchased by the Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2025 auction for ₹10.75 crore. He took part in merely two matches prior to returning to his home. In his opening match, he conceded 41 runs and one wicket in a game against Punjab Kings. In the following match, facing Mumbai Indians, he ended at 1 for 42.
Even without his presence, Gujarat Titans are going great. They have won 7 out of their 10 matches and sit second on the points table. Two wins in their last three games should suffice to qualify them for the playoffs.
It still remains to be seen whether Rabada will feature in the match against at Wankhede on Tuesday. Cricket South Africa has not provided any official update so far.
