Kagiso Rabada issues official statement on Drug Substance after Pat Cummins' jibe

South African pacer Kagiso Rabada opened up about his recent doping ban after Day 1 of the 2025 World Test Championship Final (WTC) against Australia at Lord's. Rabada admitted that it was a low point in his career but added that he has always given his full effort while playing for South Africa.

Kagiso Rabada had tested positive for cocaine earlier this year and was handed a one-month suspension, forcing him to exit the early stages of IPL 2025. The South African bowler rejoined Gujarat Titans (GT) for a few games before the WTC Final. He was eligible for the high-profile clash against Australia.

Obviously, It Wasn't My Best Moment - Kagiso Rabada On Drug Ban

In a press conference after play on Day 1, Kagiso Rabada answered questions about his recent doping ban. The South African fast bowler said that it didn’t change his approach. He focused solely on doing his best for the team.

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“Yeah, obviously it wasn't my best moment, as I've alluded to. Now, life moves on. I think every game that I play for South Africa, I try to do my best. I didn't try to give any more or any less effort than I usually do in all the games that I play for South Africa. So that's all I tried to do today,” Rabada said in the press conference after the end of the day’s play.

Rabada tested positive for a banned substance during his stint with MI Cape Town in the SA20 league. According to a report by Club Cricket SA, the fast bowler returned to South Africa from India after the suspension was enforced. He accepted the penalty and took full responsibility for the doping violation.

Kagiso Rabada Rattles Australia with Five-Wicket Haul in WTC Final

South Africa got off to a strong start in the 2025 World Test Championship final against Australia, which began on June 11 at Lord's. Opting to bowl first on seam-friendly conditions, the Proteas dismissed the defending champions for 212 on Day 1.

Kagiso Rabada delivered a standout performance with a five-wicket haul. He struck early, removing Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green in his first spell, and later broke a crucial partnership by dismissing Beau Webster for 72.

Rabada also picked up the wickets of Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, finishing with impressive figures of 5 for 51 in 15.4 overs.

Despite South Africa’s dominance with the ball, Australia fought back late in the day, reducing the Proteas to 43 for 4 by stumps. Rabada is expected to play a key role again in Australia's second innings.

Former Cricketer Calls Out Australia Over Kagiso Rabada’s Drug Ban

Former South Africa batter Daryll Cullinan said that Kagiso Rabada can’t escape the scrutiny, but the best way to silence critics would be through strong on-field performances. However, Cullinan said that Rabada must mentally adapt to dealing with such distractions moving forward.

"Unfortunately, Rabada is going to deal with, for the rest of his career, comments being made relating to off-the-field matters, not only on the field but also by spectators. Only he can deal with it. The best would be just to take wickets," Cullinan told Hindustan Times in an interview.

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