Zimbabwe Cricket Suspends Wessly Madhevere, Brandon Mavuta Over Alleged Drug Use

In a significant development, Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has taken the decision to suspend all-rounders Wessly Madhevere and Brandon Mavuta pending a hearing. The suspension comes in the wake of allegations that both players tested positive for a banned recreational drug. The officials made this announcement on Thursday, marking a temporary setback for the two cricketers.

Wessly Madhevere, aged 23, is an integral part of Zimbabwe's T20 side, having participated in 98 matches across all formats for the national team. His most recent appearance was in a Twenty20 match against Ireland on December 10.

On the other hand, Brandon Mavuta, 26, has represented Zimbabwe in 26 international matches, with his last appearance being in a one-day match against Ireland on Sunday.

The use of banned substances, including recreational drugs, is strictly prohibited in professional sports, and such instances are met with disciplinary actions to maintain the integrity of the game.

The upcoming hearing will serve as a platform for both Madhevere and Mavuta to present their case and address the allegations. Until the conclusion of the hearing, their availability for national and international matches remains in question.

"Zimbabwe Cricket has with immediate effect suspended two Zimbabwe international players from all cricket activities, pending a hearing, for allegedly breaching anti-doping rules," ZC said in a statement.

"The concerned players, Wessly Madhevere and Brandon Mavuta, both tested positive for a banned recreational drug in an out-of-competition case recorded during a recent in-house doping test."

The suspensions came a day after coach Dave Houghton resigned from his position ahead of a white-ball tour to Sri Lanka in January.

 

Inputs from Reuters