Rabada back in India a month after suspension for recreational drug use

Kagiso Rabada is back in India and may be available for Gujarat Titans's next match, against Mumbai Indians, at the Wankhede on May 6.

The Titans are scheduled to travel to Mumbai on Sunday (May 4) and Rabada will be part of the squad. The South African pacer rejoined the Titans squad in Ahmedabad on Saturday (May 3). Rabada had confessed to failing a dope test for recreational drug use and was serving a suspension.

Clarity will emerge on Monday (May 5), when the offices of Cricket South Africa (CSA) and the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport will reopen.

It is not clear what substance Rabada consumed. The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport will apparently issue a statement on Monday.

According to WADA code, an eligibility period of one-month is sufficient if the athlete is able to establish that the ingestion has occurred out of competition and he has stayed away from the competition for one month. Rabada, who had left for South Africa on April 3, returned exactly a month later.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has issued a statement terming it as a regrettable incident. "Cricket South Africa (CSA) can confirm that Proteas Men right arm fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has returned an adverse analytical finding for the use of a prohibited substance.

"The incident is regrettable, however, Rabada has reassured CSA and his fans of his commitment to upholding professional standards and has restated his passion to the sport of cricket and the country he represents with purpose.

"CSA is fully committed to drug-free sport and reminds cricket players, both professional and amateur, of the importance of adhering to all regulations. We are steadfast in our support to all players in this regard."