Kagiso Rabada available for selection in the MI vs GT IPL 2025 match

When Kagiso Rabada left the Gujarat Titans camp right at the initial phase of IPL 2025, it left the fans and fraternity puzzled. Neither the player nor the GT management cited anything beyond 'personal reasons' for Rabada's return to South Africa. However, when the puzzle was solved over this past weekend, it left the fraternity in shock. The premier Proteas speedster had tested positive for a banned substance and had been subjected to a provisional suspension. However, with the substance being a recreational drug that didn't bear any performance-enhancing effects from its usage, Rabada has quickly left the incident in the past. With the one-month suspension completed, the seamer has returned to India and joined the Gujarat camp ahead of the MI vs GT IPL 2025 match.

GT Director of Cricket confirms the availability of Kagiso Rabada for MI vs GT IPL 2025 match

Kagiso Rabada has rejoined Gujarat Titans and will be available for the rest of IPL 2025 after completing a mandated 'substance abuse treatment program'. The pacer had returned to South Africa midway through the tournament after revealing he had tested positive for a recreational drug, which resulted in a provisional suspension. The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) confirmed in an official release that Rabada has now concluded the required treatment process, thereby clearing the way for his return to competitive cricket.

According to the statement, the positive test occurred following an SA20 league match between MI Cape Town and Durban Super Giants on January 21. Rabada was formally notified of the results on April 1, after which the temporary ban was imposed. The governing body extended the option of rehabilitation to Rabada, and as per the latest update, the Proteas quick underwent two sessions of a treatment program focused on substance abuse recovery.

Having completed these, along with a one-month period of ineligibility, the suspension was lifted, making him eligible to resume playing. As Gujarat Titans prepare to face Mumbai Indians in their upcoming IPL 2025 fixture, Director of Cricket Vikram Solanki has confirmed that Rabada is now in contention for selection and available to play.

"I'm glad you brought that up. Kagiso is now available for selection. Given all that has transpired over the last month or so, I want to make a couple of things clear. First, Kagiso has expressed regret and acknowledged an error in judgment. His statement, which I read, really spoke volumes about his character. He’s eager to move forward, to return to the game he loves, and he's taken the lessons on board. We're all looking forward to having him back, fully integrated in training and the squad. The second thing I’d like to put on record is that all procedures and protocols have been followed – by Kagiso, his representatives, and the relevant authorities," Solanki said.