Islamabad – May 3, 2025: Kagiso Rabada’s abrupt IPL 2025 exit turned serious after his provisional suspension for testing positive for a recreational drug.
The South African Cricketers’ Association broke the silence weeks after Rabada quietly left the Gujarat Titans in early April, having played only two matches.
At the time, his departure was attributed to “personal reasons,” with neither the franchise nor the league offering further clarification.
Even Titans captain Shubman Gill only stated that Rabada was unavailable, adding no specifics.
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Now 29, Rabada had been picked by Gujarat Titans in the December auction for INR 10.75 crore.
His absence had confused fans and raised speculation until a statement from Rabada himself, released via his player association, shed light on the matter.
Rabada confirmed that he had returned to South Africa after an adverse analytical finding related to a recreational drug.
He expressed regret and said he fully accepted the provisional suspension. He also extended gratitude to those who had supported him through what he described as a difficult period.
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Reports suggest Rabada’s failed drug test may have happened during the SA20, raising concerns over how he was allowed to play in the IPL before results were confirmed.
With no word yet from Cricket South Africa, doubts grow over Rabada’s availability for the World Test Championship final on June 11 at Lord’s.
His immediate future in both franchise and international cricket remains uncertain.
This adds to IPL 2025’s off-field troubles, shifting focus to damage control as the season nears its end.
