Drugs and cricketers

The Maninder Singh incident was shocking. We have known some films stars to be drug addicts but its the first time that an Indian cricketer has been arrested for possessing drugs. He had 1.5 grams of cocaine and he admitted to be in the habit of consuming drugs consistently. He has been granted bail and will spend some tough time now defending himself.

Cricketers and ex-cricketers across the world have had a history with drugs. Some of them did it during or before games as well.

Shane Warne couldn't pass the drugs test in 2003 world cup.

Phill Tuffnel was accused of cosuming drugs in 1996-97, denied the charges- got away but didn't turn up for a random drug test and was suspended for 18 months with a fine of 1000 pounds.

Ian Botham was banned for 63 days for consuming drugs.

New zealand's Stephen Fleming, Dion Nash and Matthwe Hart were banned and fined for consuming cananabis in 93-94.


South Africa's Roger Telemachus, Andre Nel, Paul Adams, Justin Kemp and physiotherapist Craig Smith admitted to consuming drugs in a party celebrating a win and were punished.

Pakistan's Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Aqib Javed and Mushtaq Ahmed were arrested by West Indian police in 1993 for possesing marijuana. They were arrested along with two British female journalists. The PCB strongly protested and as the matters reached Diplomatic levels, the Prime Minister intervened and got the four out of the crisis.

Pakistan's Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif failed to pass an internal drug test just prior to the last Champions Trophy. They were immediately withdrawn from the tournament. A panel of judges banned the cricketers but then PCB formed another Panel which over ruled the decision and set the players free.

The above list does not include all the names. Now, an Indian's name is also included in that. I hope we will get to see fewer such cases....specifically with current cricketers. Those who are caught should be punished to set an appropriate example.

References:
Cricinfo
Hindustan Times
DNA India