Picture Credit: X/IPL
Former Australian Test captain Tim Paine has sharply criticized the handling of Kagiso Rabada’s recent drug-related suspension, questioning the lack of transparency and clarity in how the matter was addressed. Speaking on SEN Radio, Paine said the situation “stinks,” raising concerns over how little the public knows about what transpired. He questioned why details such as the specific banned substance, the length of the suspension, and the authority that oversaw the process were kept under wraps.
Paine emphasized that while Rabada’s drug test may have involved a recreational substance rather than a performance-enhancing one, it still warranted open discussion. He argued that cases involving high-profile athletes should be handled with more transparency to maintain public trust. “This is not just a personal issue,” Paine stated, underlining that the global cricket community including fans and sponsors deserves clear and timely information when such matters arise.
Rabada cleared to play in IPL and WTC final
Despite the controversy, Rabada’s playing status remained largely unaffected for several months. He continued to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) before being quietly withdrawn by his team and placed under provisional suspension. During this period, neither the IPL nor Cricket South Africa provided public statements clarifying the situation. According to anti-doping guidelines, recreational drug use outside of competition can carry reduced sanctions if the athlete completes a rehabilitation program; a condition Rabada has reportedly fulfilled.
The discreet nature of this process, however, has only fuelled further criticism. With Rabada now cleared to play, attention turns to his potential return for two major upcoming fixtures: the final stretch of the IPL and the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. Cricket South Africa confirmed that Rabada has completed all necessary steps to be reinstated, paving the way for his return to international competition.
