Kagiso Rabada Cleared to Play for Gujarat Titans After Completing Drug Suspension Program

Gujarat Titans pacer Kagiso Rabada is set to rejoin the squad and has arrived in India. He is likely to feature in GT’s upcoming clash against the Mumbai Indians. Rabada had faced a three-month suspension after failing a doping test and returned to his home country during that period. However, the ban was reduced to one month after he participated in a drug education and awareness programme. Originally slated from 3 April to July 3, the suspension was revised to last from April 3 to May 3. 

The provisional ban on the player for using prohibited recreational drugs has now been lifted after he successfully completed a “Substance abuse treatment program” during his suspension. With the suspension officially over, Rabada is eligible to play again and could be included in GT’s playing XI for the upcoming match.

A statement from the South African Institute for Drug Free Sports (SAIDS), confirmed that the pacer failed the test during SA20 and was informed the same on April 1, due to which the player had to leave the IPL Season mid-way. “Mr. Rabada tested positive for a Substance of Abuse and was subsequently notified of the allegation of his doping offence on 1 April 2025. A provisional suspension was imposed and Mr. Rabada returned immediately to South Africa from India,” the release said. 

“As per the South African Anti-Doping Rules specifically pertaining to 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 a one-month period of ineligibility and may now resume participation in sport,” it added.

Kagiso Rabada, who left the league last month after playing just two games for Gujarat Titans, was bought by the franchise for a sum of 10.75 crore in the mega auction. Now set free, Kagiso might be seen in the next match of the Gujarat Titans.