Hampshire Bowler Keith Barker Cleared to Return After Doping Ban Due to Administrative Error
Hampshire bowler Keith Barker is set to return to play on July 4 after being handed a 12-month ban for breaching the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) anti-doping regulations, a penalty resulting from an "administrative error." Barker, 38, has been sidelined since a County Championship match against Kent in late June 2022, where he took five wickets. The club faced restrictions in publicly addressing his absence.
The ban arose after Barker tested positive for indapamide, a substance that was an unreported, permissible alternative to his previous medication. The oversight—described as a "genuine mistake" between Barker and medical professionals—prevented the declaration to UK Anti-Doping. A request for a retrospective therapeutic use exemption was subsequently denied. The review panel acknowledged that Barker had no intent to gain a competitive edge.
Reflecting on his challenging journey, Barker expressed his relief and gratitude in a statement: "Over the last nine months… I feared for the loss of my career." He emphasized the mental strain of being removed from a sport he has cherished since childhood, thanking Hampshire and the Professional Cricketers’ Association for their support. Barker hopes that his experience serves as a cautionary tale for younger players regarding medication and anti-doping protocols.
Hampshire’s director of cricket, Giles White, described the incident as regrettable, affirming the club’s commitment to helping Barker reintegrate into the team. White praised Barker as an exceptional professional and a fan favorite. As Barker prepares to resume his career, both he and the club are optimistic about the future.
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