IPL 2025: Gujarat Titans pacer Kagiso Rabada flies back to South Africa for 'Personal Reasons'

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Gujarat Titans' premier fast bowler, Kagiso Rabada, has returned to South Africa to address personal matters.

This development came ahead of their recent IPL 2025 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), where Rabada's absence was noted. In his place, left-arm pacer Arshad Khan was included in the playing XI. ​

"Kagiso Rabada has returned to South Africa to deal with an important personal matter," said in a statement by the Gujarat Titans on Thursday.

The South African left for his country earlier this week and there is no timeframe on when Rabada will return for his IPL duties.

Despite Rabada's absence, Gujarat Titans delivered a commanding performance against RCB. Opting to bowl first, they restricted Bengaluru to 169/8 in 20 overs. Pacer Mohammed Siraj was instrumental, securing three wickets for 19 runs. In the chase, Jos Buttler showcased his batting prowess with an unbeaten 73 off 39 balls, leading the Titans to an eight-wicket victory with 13 balls to spare. ​

This win marks Gujarat Titans' second victory in three matches this season. Earlier, they faced a narrow defeat against Punjab Kings, falling short by 11 runs in a high-scoring encounter. Looking ahead, the Titans are scheduled to face Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 6, 2025, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.

Following this, they will host Rajasthan Royals on April 9 at their home ground in Ahmedabad. The team will aim to maintain their winning momentum, with hopes that Rabada's return will further bolster their bowling attack.