SAIDS clears Rabada to return to cricket
The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) today announced South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada can resume playing cricket after serving a one-month ban for testing positive for a recreational drug.
“The player (Rabada) accepted responsibility for the doping offence and honoured his provisional suspension,” said SAIDS in their statement.
“As per the South African Anti-Doping Rules specifically pertaining to a Substances of Abuse, the player was offered an opportunity to complete a substance abuse treatment program. After Mr. Rabada satisfactorily completed two sessions of his treatment program, his provisional suspension ended.
“The Player has effectively served one-month period of ineligibility and may now resume participation in sport.”
Rabada is now eligible be selected in the South Africa squad for the ICC World Test Championship Final, which needs to be submitted to the International Cricket Council by May 12.
The Proteas face off against defending champions Australia in the one-off decider at Lord’s, which starts on June 11.
Rabada earlier released a statement via the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA).
"As has been reported, I recently returned to South Africa from participating in the IPL for personal reasons,” Rabada said. “This was due to my returning an adverse analytical finding for the use of a recreational drug.
"I am deeply sorry to all those that I have let down. I will never take the privilege of playing cricket for granted. This privilege is much larger than me. It goes beyond my personal aspirations.
"I am serving a provisional suspension and I am looking forward to returning to the game I love playing.
"Moving forward, 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.”
Cricket South Africa also released a statement on the matter.
“The incident is regrettable, however, Rabada has reassured CSA and his fans of his commitment to upholding professional standards and has restated his passion to the sport of cricket and the country he represents with purpose,” said CSA in their statement.
“CSA is fully committed to drug-free sport and reminds cricket players, both professional and amateur, of the importance of adhering to all regulations. We are steadfast in our support to all players in this regard.”