2024 Prohibited List - watch out for TRAMADOL
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) maintains a Prohibited List, which is a comprehensive document that outlines substances and methods that are prohibited in sports. This list is updated annually to reflect the most current scientific and medical knowledge regarding doping in sports.
The 2024 WADA Prohibited List that will come into effect on 1 January 2024 was published by WADA on 28 September 2023 and is available on the ICC website. We encourage all Members to upload the list to their websites specifying the date it comes into effect. In addition, WADA has also published a summary of major modifications and explanatory notes to the 2024 WADA Prohibited List which is also available on the anti-doping section of the ICC website.
The most important modification in the 2024 Prohibited List is regarding tramadol’s inclusion on the List under category S7 - Narcotics
In September 2022, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) explained that tramadol has been on the Monitoring Program for several years and data gathered through this programme has indicated significant use of the substance in certain sports hence the substance was to be included on the 2024 Prohibited List. Tramadol misuse is of concern because of the risks of physical dependence, opiate addiction, and overdose. In addition, research studies funded by WADA have also confirmed the potential for tramadol to enhance sports performance.
The ICC therefore wishes to reiterate to all Members, that any cricketer tested in-competition from 1 January 2024 by the ICC or another Anti-Doping Organisation may face the prospect of a ban from sport if tramadol is found in their sample. Members are asked to please ensure cricketers under your care are advised of the inclusion of tramadol in the 2024 Prohibited List and reminded to speak to their doctor about seeking alternative pain medication that is permitted in sport.
For further information, please refer to the tramadol fact sheets available on the anti-doping section of the ICC website.