Cricketer Rajan Kumar, who was part of RCB in IPL 2024, fails dope test
The world of Indian cricket has been hit with a shocking revelation, as Uttarakhand left-arm fast bowler Rajan Kumar has failed a dope test. According to reports, the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has imposed a provisional suspension on the young cricketer, following the detection of performance-enhancing substances in his system. Rajan, who was a part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, tested positive for Drostanolone, Metenolone, and Clomiphene anabolic steroids.
This news comes as a significant setback for the 23-year-old cricketer, who had shown immense promise in the domestic circuit. In the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, Rajan took 13 wickets, showcasing his skills as a potent left-arm fast bowler. His impressive performance had caught the attention of cricket pundits and fans alike, with many tipping him for a bright future in the sport.
However, the failed dope test has now cast a shadow over Rajan’s career, and he faces an uncertain future. The provisional suspension imposed by NADA means that he will not be able to participate in any cricketing activities until the completion of the disciplinary proceedings. The suspension will also be a significant blow to RCB, who had invested in Rajan’s talent and had high hopes for his performance in the IPL.
The use of performance-enhancing substances is a serious offense in the world of sports, and cricket is no exception. The International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have strict anti-doping policies in place, which include regular testing of players and severe penalties for those found guilty of doping. The BCCI has a zero-tolerance policy towards doping, and players who test positive face severe sanctions, including lengthy bans and fines.
Rajan’s case is not an isolated incident, as several Indian cricketers have been caught in the past for doping. In 2019, former India pacer Pradeep Sangwan was banned for 12 months after testing positive for a banned substance. Similarly, in 2020, Uttar Pradesh cricketer Dhruv Shorey was handed a six-month suspension for violating the BCCI’s anti-doping rules.
The NADA’s decision to impose a provisional suspension on Rajan is in line with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, which governs anti-doping regulations globally. Under the WADA code, players who test positive for performance-enhancing substances are automatically provisionally suspended, pending the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings.
Rajan’s failed dope test has sparked a debate about the prevalence of doping in Indian cricket. While some have argued that the BCCI’s anti-doping policies are adequate, others have called for more stringent measures to prevent doping in the sport. The incident has also highlighted the need for greater awareness and education among cricketers about the dangers of doping and the importance of fair play.
In conclusion, the news of Rajan Kumar’s failed dope test is a significant setback for Indian cricket. The young cricketer, who had shown immense promise, now faces an uncertain future, and his career hangs in the balance. As the disciplinary proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen what sanctions Rajan will face and how this incident will impact his future in the sport.
Source: https://x.com/kushansarkar/status/2008197106234991093