South African pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada is set to return to international cricket in the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) Final, following a provisional suspension for testing positive for a recreational drug. The star fast bowler left the Indian Premier League (IPL) abruptly on April 3, citing personal reasons. A month later, Rabada confirmed the real reason behind his early exit—he had tested positive for a banned recreational substance during the SA20 tournament held in January-February.
Rabada: “I Owe It to My Teammates”
Speaking at a media interaction in London ahead of the WTC Final, Rabada acknowledged the need to address the situation with his teammates. While he’s not keen to dwell on the incident indefinitely, he emphasized the importance of transparency.
“I think I owe it to them [to talk about what happened]—they’re my teammates. We’ve come so far, you know, and to my closest people I owe it to them,” he told ESPNCricinfo.
He added, “This is not an ideal situation. I don’t need too many pats on the back here. I’m going to be joining them again. I’ve already spoken to them, and I guess we can do so in more detail when we get together for an extended amount of time.”
A Period of Introspection and Gratitude
The 29-year-old fast bowler tested positive for a substance listed under the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport’s code, which includes recreational drugs like cannabis, cocaine, heroin, or ecstasy. Rabada did not disclose the exact details of the incident but shared how the suspension became a turning point in his mindset.
“It led me to a bit of introspection about myself, and I took some time away from the game. I think the biggest thing I took away from it is having gratitude for playing the game that we love. I’m just glad to be playing again… the process was handled really well.”
Rabada also defended his decision to return early from the IPL rather than contest the suspension.
“The decision to come back early was brilliant, and that’s a decision that I made. I could have tried to contest it and whatnot, but coming home was the best option. I was in good hands. All the parties involved made the whole process smooth.”
While he acknowledged the disappointment his actions may have caused fans and loved ones, Rabada stressed that he has accepted the consequences and is moving forward.
“Some people would have been disappointed, and to those people, I’m deeply sorry. The people closest to me are the ones I felt I let down. But life moves on. I’ll never be ‘Mr-I-Apologise’ too much. But I’ll never condone that action.”
As Rabada rejoins the South African squad for the WTC Final, all eyes will be on how he channels his introspection into performance. With his candid acknowledgment and a fresh mindset, fans hope to see the fiery fast bowler back at his best.
