South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has been cleared to play for Gujarat Titans in the IPL after completing a substance abuse treatment program during his provisional suspension. The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) lifted the ban, allowing Rabada to rejoin his IPL team. He is expected to be available for selection when the Titans face Mumbai Indians on Tuesday.
Rabada, who was tested during the SA20 league in January, is also now eligible to participate in the World Test Championship final against Australia next month. The SAIDS release stated that Rabada tested positive for a Substance of Abuse and was notified of the doping allegation on April 1, 2025. He immediately returned to South Africa from India, and after completing two sessions of the treatment program, his suspension was lifted.
Substances of Abuse, including cocaine, heroin, MDMA, and cannabis, are classified under which Rabada’s case was processed. Violations can lead to a ban of up to four years, but if the use was out-of-competition and unrelated to performance enhancement, the suspension can be reduced to three months. Rabada left the IPL last month after playing two matches for Gujarat Titans, citing personal reasons. He apologized for his actions and expressed his determination to continue working hard and playing with passion and devotion to his craft.
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