South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is available for selection for the Gujarat Titans, the franchise has confirmed. This comes after Rabada served a one-month suspension imposed by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) for testing positive for a recreational drug during the SA20 league held earlier this year.
Rabada, who was signed by the Gujarat Titans for a hefty ₹10.75 crore in the IPL 2025 auction, had to leave the ongoing season mid-way after the positive test result was conveyed to him on April 1, 2025. He had featured in the Titans’ first two matches of the season, picking up two wickets.
Gujarat Titans’ Director of Cricket, Vikram Solanki, addressed the media on Monday, May 5, 2025, confirming Rabada’s return to the squad ahead of their crucial match against the Mumbai Indians. “With Kagiso, as far as tomorrow’s match is concerned, the fact is he is now available,” Solanki stated. He further added that Rabada had expressed regret for his error in judgment and is eager to return to playing the game he loves.
Solanki also clarified that all protocols and procedures related to Rabada’s situation had been followed diligently. “As far as procedure and protocol is concerned, everybody that’s been involved in this episode, right from Kagiso, his representatives, all matters as far as requirements have been followed to the letter,” he asserted.
While Rabada was available for selection for the match against Mumbai Indians on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, he was not included in the playing XI. Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill explained the decision at the toss, stating that the team management wanted to give Rabada more time to get back into his rhythm. Despite his absence from that particular game, his availability is a significant boost for the Gujarat Titans as they push for a playoff spot in the IPL 2025 season.
Rabada’s return bolsters the Gujarat Titans’ pace attack, which already includes Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna. His experience and proven wicket-taking ability will be invaluable in the remaining matches of the tournament.
Gujarat Titans IPL 2025 Squad (Key Players):
- Batters: Shubman Gill (Captain), Jos Buttler, Sai Sudharsan
- All-rounders: Rashid Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Washington Sundar, Shahrukh Khan
- Bowlers: Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna
The Gujarat Titans are currently positioned strongly in the IPL 2025 points table and will be aiming to capitalize on the availability of their key players like Rabada as the tournament progresses towards the playoffs.
