By Kagiso Rabada recently admitted he was suspended from all forms of cricket due to recreational drug use. His return to the IPL has sparked backlash, with a former Australian captain strongly criticizing the decision and calling it damaging for the sport.
Gujarat Titans and South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada is set to make a dramatic return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, just a month after unexpectedly exiting the tournament. What was initially labelled as a “personal issue” has now been revealed as a suspension due to recreational drug use, triggering widespread criticism and raising questions about transparency in the sport.
Rabada Admits Suspension Over Recreational Drug Use
In a statement released upon being cleared to return to the field, Rabada revealed that his sudden departure was not due to personal matters as previously stated, but rather the result of a suspension related to recreational drug use. The revelation has shocked fans and analysts alike, particularly because of the secrecy surrounding the matter until Rabada’s own disclosure.
Until then, there had been no clear explanation for Rabada’s absence from the IPL, sparking speculation. His candid admission shed light on the truth, but also exposed a bigger issue — the apparent lack of accountability and public communication from cricketing authorities.
Tim Paine Blasts Authorities for Cover-Up
Former Australia Test captain Tim Paine did not mince words when responding to Rabada’s case. Speaking on SEN Radio, Paine criticized the handling of the situation, claiming that authorities deliberately concealed the nature of Rabada’s suspension by labeling it a “personal issue.”
“It stinks,” Paine said. “Calling it a personal issue is just a way to hide something that isn’t personal. A professional athlete using drugs during a tournament is a breach of contract, not just a private matter.”
Paine’s comments reflect a growing frustration in the cricketing world with how disciplinary matters — particularly involving high-profile players — are often swept under the rug.
Lack of Transparency Raises Questions
While Rabada confirmed that he had used recreational, not performance-enhancing drugs, many critical details remain unknown. Cricketing bodies have not disclosed:
- What substance Rabada took
- The duration of his suspension
- Which governing body imposed the ban
This lack of clarity has only fueled the criticism, with Paine asserting that fans and stakeholders deserve transparency.
“People need to know what drug was taken, how long the player was suspended for, and which authority sanctioned it,” Paine emphasized. “You can’t just quietly send someone home, let them serve a ban in silence, and then bring them back like nothing happened.”
Eligible Again: IPL and World Test Championship Final
Despite the controversy, Rabada has served his suspension and is now eligible to play in the IPL for the Gujarat Titans. More significantly, he is also set to represent South Africa in the World Test Championship final, possibly against Australia — the very nation whose former captain is criticizing the system.
The swift return has intensified scrutiny, with many questioning whether the punishment was adequate and whether cricket’s governing bodies are doing enough to uphold integrity in the sport.
Broader Debate on Drugs in Cricket
While recreational drug use may not enhance on-field performance, critics argue that it still violates the code of conduct and undermines professional ethics. Paine and others believe the incident should trigger a broader review of how such cases are handled — especially when high-profile players are involved.
The issue also raises the need for clearer protocols and more transparent communication from cricket boards to maintain public trust.
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Cricket Governance
As Kagiso Rabada returns to the pitch, both fans
