Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has imposed significant penalties on cricketers Wessly Madhevere and Brandon Mavuta for recreational drug use. The duo faces four-month suspensions from all cricket activities, effective January 2024. Additionally, they will incur fines equivalent to 50% of their salaries for the next three months.
Immediate Suspension Following Doping Tests
Madhevere and Mavuta came under scrutiny after testing positive for a banned recreational drug during an in-house doping test last month. The out-of-competition case led to their immediate suspension, and subsequent investigations resulted in the disciplinary action by Zimbabwe Cricket.
The ZC Employment Code of Conduct charges against the players were admitted during a hearing last Wednesday. In addition to the bans and fines, both Madhevere and Mavuta have been directed to undergo rehabilitation overseen by Zimbabwe Cricket’s medical personnel. The sanctions, while stringent, take into account mitigating factors such as the players expressing remorse and actively working towards overcoming their substance use.
ZC stated, “In taking the decision, the Committee also considered some mitigating factors, with both players showing remorse and having already started working on withdrawing from the habit and getting their systems clean.” The rehabilitation process will involve the duo training at the high-performance program under the guidance of ZC’s medical professionals.
Kasuza Joins List of Suspended Players
In a separate incident, batter Kevin Kasuza has been suspended from all cricket activities with immediate effect after testing positive for a banned recreational drug during an in-house doping test last week. The comprehensive measures highlight Zimbabwe Cricket’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport and ensuring a clean playing environment.
As Zimbabwe Cricket takes a stern stance against drug offenses, the suspended players face a challenging path to redemption, both professionally and personally. The cricketing community will be keenly observing the rehabilitation process and its impact on the players’ future in the sport.
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