“It wasn’t my best moment” - Kagiso Rabada’s huge statement on drug ban after fifer in SA vs AUS 2025 WTC final

Talking about his recent doping ban, South African pacer Kagiso Rabada made a huge statement following the close of play on Day 1 of the 2025 WTC final. The 2025 WTC final between South Africa and Australia began on Wednesday, June 11, at Lord's.

In a press conference after play on Day 1, Kagiso Rabada was asked about his doping ban and if it gave him extra motivation to do well. Acknowledging that it was not his best moment, the pacer said he aims to do well in every game that he plays for South Africa.

“Yeah, obviously it wasn't my best moment, as I've alluded to. Now, life moves on. I think every game that I play for South Africa, I try to do my best. I didn't try to give any more or any less effort than I usually do in all the games that I play for South Africa. So that's all I tried to do today,” he said (via India Today).

Kagiso Rabada had tested positive for cocaine and served a one-month ban, due to which he had to leave the IPL 2025 season in the initial stages.

On Day 1 of the 2025 WTC final, the 30-year-old led the charge for the Proteas with a five-wicket haul, as they stopped Australia at 212.

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Kagiso Rabada's fifer on Day 1 helps South Africa bundle Australia out for 212 in SA vs AUS 2025 WTC final

South Africa dominated Australia in the first innings on Day 1 (June 11) of the 2025 WTC final at Lord's. After winning the toss and electing to bowl first, they bundled the defending champions out for just 212 runs, making full use of the conditions on offer.

The Proteas pacers called the shots, dictating terms with the ball. Senior pro Kagiso Rabada was the pick of the bowlers, bagging five wickets. He first dismissed Usman Khawaja (0) and Cameron Green (4) at the top to set the tone. Rabada returned to dismiss Beau Webster, who was well set on 72. The pacer then sent back Australian skipper Pat Cummins (1) and Mitchell Starc (1).

He finished with figures of 5/51 from 15.4 overs. However, Australia clawed their way back into the game, as they reduced South Africa to 43/4 by the end of the day. Rabada will again have a huge role to play in Australia's second innings.