Proteas coach comments on Kagiso Rabada drugs ban

Proteas coach Shukri Conrad has shared his thoughts on the positive drugs test that was recently returned by fast bowler Kagiso Rabada.

May 14, 2025 - 03:00
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Proteas coach comments on Kagiso Rabada drugs ban

Proteas superstar Kagiso Rabada has already served his one-month ban after testing positive for a recreational drug.

This past weekend the City Press publication has revealed that Rabada tested positive for cocaine, specifically a metabolite called benzoylecgonine, and he has since participated in an education and awareness programme to prevent further substance abuse.

Having served his suspension, Rabada was just named in the Proteas’ squad for the World Test Championship Final against Australia, taking place from 11-15 June at Lord’s in London.

Kagiso Rabada set to play a key role for the Proteas

At the squad unveiling, coach Shukri Conrad said there were never any doubts that the Proteas star would be included.

“The important thing is that KG is a big player wherever he goes in the world. He’s a massive player for us, but not for one minute did I sit worrying about whether he potentially will be available or not,” he commented.

“For me, it was more of, whether KG is alright and close ranks around him and ensure that he’s in a good space because at the end of the day we care for all our players but he served his sentence and all that I’m interested in now is KG producing performances that we know he’s capable of.

“I’ve been engaging with KG ever since I’ve learnt about it. I don’t know why it’s an elephant in the room, because I’m just thankful that the process that was followed was in line with what the world standards are,” Conrad added.

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF HOW THE COACH REACTED TO THE KG BOMBSHELL?

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