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Why GT Pacer Kagiso Rabada Got Only A One-Month Ban For Recreational Drug Use?

Akshita Patel

Why Kagiso Rabada banned [Source: AP Photos]Why Kagiso Rabada banned [Source: AP Photos]

South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is back with the Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025 after serving a one-month suspension for using recreational drugs. Initially, Rabada left the tournament citing “personal reasons,” but later it was revealed he had tested positive for drug use and was banned starting April 1, 2025.

Rabada’s drug test was taken after an SA20 match on January 21. The result came on April 1, and he was immediately suspended. 

While the exact drug wasn’t named, substances like cocaine, heroin, MDMA, and THC are all listed by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) under “Substances of Abuse.”

Kagiso Rabada Suspended For One Month

So why was the ban only one month? In 2021, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) made a change in its rules. They said that some drugs, often used in everyday society and not for performance enhancement, should be treated differently. 

If an athlete can prove the drug use was not meant to boost performance and happened outside of competition, the usual punishment is 3 months. However, if the athlete completes an approved education or treatment program, the ban can be reduced to just one month.

Kagiso Rabada likely took the substance before the competition began, and since he finished the education program, he qualified for the one-month ban. Since his ban is now being served, Rabada is clear to play in the IPL. And will also be available for South Africa in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June against Australia.

Rabada Left Out Of GT’s Clash Vs MI

Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill chose not to include Kagiso Rabada in the playing XI against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, even though he was cleared to return after a one-month drug-related suspension. 

Clarifying after the toss, Gill said that Rabada needs a few practice sessions and a few games to get back in his groove.