Islamabad, 13 May, 2025: Andrew Breetzke, the chief of (SACA, has responded strongly to Tim Paine’s criticism regarding the handling of Kagiso Rabada’s recent drug ban.
Rabada, South Africa’s star pacer, faced a one-month suspension after traces of benzoylecgonine (BZE), a cocaine metabolite, were found in his urine sample during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season.
The pacer’s departure from the Gujarat Titans (GT) midway through the IPL raised eyebrows.
Initially, GT cited a “significant personal matter” as the reason for his sudden exit on April 3, offering no further explanation or return timeline.
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It was later revealed that the real cause was Rabada’s drug-related ban, which had not been disclosed initially.
Former Australian cricketer Tim Paine criticized the lack of transparency around Rabada’s absence, questioning GT’s explanation on a radio show.
Paine argued that recreational drug use during a professional tournament should not be framed as a “personal issue,” stating it should be treated as a breach of contract.
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In response, Breetzke called Paine’s remarks “naive,” defending the handling of the case by SACA.
He clarified that the association had strictly adhered to the guidelines set by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
Breetzke further praised Rabada’s professionalism, explaining that the process was initiated promptly after Rabada was informed of the positive test on April 1.
He stressed that the entire matter was dealt with in a professional, transparent manner, with Rabada being open and honest throughout the process.
