South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada may miss next month’s World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia after testing positive for a banned substance. On Saturday, the 29-year-old confirmed that he is currently serving a provisional suspension. He admitted to testing positive for a recreational drug, which is not a performance-enhancing substance Rabada recently left the Indian Premier League (IPL) early and returned home to South Africa, citing “personal reasons.” Now, the reason behind his early exit has become clear. In a public statement shared by the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA), Rabada expressed deep regret. “I am deeply sorry to all those I have let down,” he said. “Playing cricket for my country is a huge honour. It means more than just personal success. I will never take that privilege for granted.”
Rabada also thanked those who have supported him through this difficult time. “I couldn’t have gone through this alone,” he said. “I want to thank my agent, Cricket South Africa (CSA), Gujarat Titans, SACA, my legal team, and most of all, my friends and family.” He added, “This moment will not define me. I will keep working hard and play with the same passion and love for the game.” According to ESPNcricinfo, the incident happened during the recent SA20 tournament. The report confirmed that the substance was not meant to improve performance.
Rabada made his Test debut in 2015 and has become one of South Africa’s leading bowlers. He has taken 327 Test wickets at an average of 22.00, including 16 five-wicket hauls. Only four South Africans have taken more wickets in Test cricket.
He was expected to lead South Africa’s bowling attack in the WTC final against Australia at Lord’s, starting on June 11. However, his participation is now in serious doubt.