• Home
  • Who Said What
  • Shubman Gill Explains Rabadas Absence From Mi Vs Gt Clash Despite Drug Clearance

Shubman Gill Explains Rabada's Absence From MI vs GT Clash Despite Drug Clearance

Soumyajit Dutta

Shubman Gill and Kagiso Rabada [Source: @@Im_SRKhatri_18]Shubman Gill and Kagiso Rabada [Source: @@Im_SRKhatri_18]

Gujarat Titans excluded Kagiso Rabada from their playing XI during the IPL match against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium, despite the South African pacer’s clearance post a provisional suspension for a positive drug test. 

Captain Shubman Gill elected to field after winning the toss, replacing all-rounder Washington Sundar with seamer Arshad Khan. Gill later clarified Rabada required additional practice sessions to regain match readiness, highlighting the team’s flexibility with six to seven bowling options.

Gill Reveals Real Reason Behind Rabada's Exclusion 

Rabada, who briefly left the IPL last month following the drug test result, completed a rehabilitation program mandated by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS). The Titans confirmed his availability for remaining matches but did not disclose the suspension’s duration. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill's post-toss interaction revealed the pacer's absence.

"Rabada is back (in the squad), but he will need a few practice sessions and a few games to get back in his groove. We are fortunate that we can use Kishore when needed. We have 6-7 bowling options," Gill stated during the toss. 

The franchise emphasized Rabada’s accountability, noting, "Kagiso Rabada has accepted responsibility and regrets his mistake."

The 29-year-old, having played only two IPL 2025 games, expressed remorse, saying, 

"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."

Gujarat In The Playoffs Race

Currently fourth in the standings, Gujarat faces a tight race for playoffs with four league games remaining. meanwhile, Kagiso Rabada only played 2 games this IPL season so far bagging 2 wickets and at a dismal economy rate of 10.38. While his inclusion is expected soon, an in-form Rabada could ease out bowling woes for GT in the upcoming fixtures.