The reality is not something Kagiso Rabada is trying to hide. Following a positive recreational drug test earlier this year, which resulted in a one-month suspension, he is returning to the public eye with a resolute and accountable demeanor.
The World Test Championship (WTC) final is coming up in London, and the South African fast bowler is aware that it’s not only about bowling quickly again. Regaining the faith of his squad, the media, and possibly even himself is the goal.
“Look, this is not an ideal situation. I don’t need too many pats on the back here. I’m going to be joining them again. I’ve already spoken to them and I guess we can do so in more detail when we get together for an extended amount of time.”
He has already had private conversations with a few members of the team. There will be more discussions in London, where time and companionship may help resolve the issues raised by the headlines.
Rabada tested positive for a recreational drug that is prohibited, most likely heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, or cannabis, during the SA20 league in January, sparking the trouble.
He departed the IPL in March with the excuse of “personal reasons,” which now seems to be a catch-all for something more nuanced. He returned to play two games for the Gujarat Titans after serving his ban.
What led him along that route has not been disclosed by him. However, he acknowledged that the experience made him stop, think, and reevaluate.
“It led me to a bit of introspection about myself, and I took some time away from the game,” he said. “I think the biggest thing I took away from it is having gratitude for playing the game that we love. I’m just glad to be playing again… the process was handled really well.”
Rabada went back home and faced the repercussions after deciding not to challenge the punishment. His admission and his choice probably lessened the severity of the penalty. The journey back, however, is not just procedural; it is also emotional and reputational.
“The decision to come back early [from the IPL] was brilliant, and that’s a decision that I made,” Rabada added. “I could have tried to contest it and whatnot, but coming home was the best option, and I was in good hands. All the parties that were involved made the whole process smooth.
“I think, as a player, and a man, people will have different opinions. I can live with that.”
It’s all about cricket now. Returning to the center of the sport’s greatest pressure, the WTC final was no easy landing for Rabada. However, it’s where he wants to be and perhaps where redemption begins—not in words, but in his performance, his demeanor, and his presence for everyone around him.
“As you would have seen in my statement there are some people who would have been disappointed. And to those people I’m deeply sorry,” Rabada said. “The people closest to me are the ones I felt I let down.
“But life moves on. I’ll never be ‘Mr-I-Apologise’ too much. But I’ll never condone that action.”
