INVESTIGATE DRUG ABUSE IN SPORT
DRUG abuse and doping have become a major challenge in the sporting world. Athletes are continually looking for ways to boost their performance, and unfortunately, some turn to illegal and dangerous substances. Zimbabwean sport is no exception to this trend, and recently there has been an increase in drug abuse cases in cricket.
This situation calls for a comprehensive probe of drug abuse in all sporting disciplines in Zimbabwe to ensure a fair and clean competition.
Drug abuse not only affects athletes’ physical and psychological well-being but also undermines the integrity and fairness of sports. Therefore, it is every sporting organisation’s responsibility to take active measures to prevent and stop drug abuse. Zimbabwe Cricket, as a reputable body, must spearhead such efforts to curb drug abuse in cricket and other sporting disciplines.
The need for a probe of drug abuse in all sporting disciplines cannot be overemphasised. Cricket has recently had several cases of drug abuse, showing that the problem is not just limited to one sport.
The confession of former skipper Brendon Taylor’s cocaine use has raised further questions about the role of drug addiction in cricket.
Brandon Mavuta, Wesley Madhevere and Kevin Kasusa have also grabbed headlines for drug abuse.
In 2018, Zimbabwean international cricketer, Solomon Mire, tested positive for a banned substance, resulting in him being suspended for 12 months.
In 2019, another Zimbabwean international cricketer, Ryan Burl, admitted to using marijuana before a game, resulting in him being subjected to disciplinary action by the International Cricket Council. These cases demonstrate the need for a comprehensive probe of drug abuse in cricket and other sporting disciplines.
The issue is not unique to cricket, as the case of Harare City forward Jerry Chipangura’s conviction for possession of crystal meth has shocked the football fraternity. It is essential to intensify antidrug and substance abuse campaigns in sports, and sports personalities should lead the way as role models and ambassadors.
A probe of drug abuse in all sporting disciplines will help to identify the extent of the problem and take appropriate measures against drug abusers.
This probe will also help to determine the types of drugs being abused and their effects on athletes’ health and performance. With this information, stakeholders can then develop appropriate education and awareness programmes to prevent drug abuse and ensure that athletes are informed of the risks involved with doping. This, in the long run, will ensure that Zimbabwe’s sporting disciplines are free of drug abuse, and only truly deserving athletes are successful.
Another reason why there is a need to probe drug abuse in sports is the damage it does to the country’s public image. When Zimbabwean athletes are caught using illegal substances, the nation’s sporting reputation is tarnished. In such instances, rather than being known for producing talented and hard-working athletes, the country will be painted as a country where athletes cheat to win.
Investigating drug abuse in all sporting disciplines must be carried out transparently and without fear or favour. It should be done to uphold the integrity of sports and to protect athletes’ well-being and their rights.
The probe should also be guided by international anti-doping regulations and Zimbabwe’s sporting laws and regulations. This approach will ensure that athletes are held accountable for their actions and that Zimbabwe’s sporting institutions are clean and credible.