Netherlands Pacer Vivian Kingma Banned for Doping Violation

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has banned Netherlands fast bowler Vivian Kingma for three months after he was found guilty of consuming a banned recreational drug linked to cocaine.

The ICC confirmed the suspension on Tuesday, September 16, stating that Kingma’s sample, taken after the UAE vs Netherlands match on May 12 during the Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2, tested positive for Benzoylecgonine, a cocaine-related substance prohibited under the Anti-Doping Code.

Kingma admitted to using the drug but claimed it was consumed before the tournament, not during. Recreational drugs are taken for intoxication and not for performance enhancement, yet remain banned under ICC rules.

This is the second such case in 2025, after South Africa’s star pacer Kagiso Rabada was banned during IPL 2025 for a similar offence.

Kingma, 30, who has represented the Netherlands in 56 internationals, began serving his suspension on August 15. If he successfully completes a treatment program, his ban could be reduced to one month. Additionally, his performances in matches played on or after May 12 have been annulled.