Vivian Kingma, a fast bowler from the Netherlands, has been suspended for three months by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after testing positive for a recreational drug in an ODI match against the United Arab Emirates earlier this year.

The 30-year-old seamer provided an in-competition sample after the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 match in Utrecht, on May 12, 2025, which tested positive for Benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine. According to the ICC Anti-Doping Code, its presence in his system identifies him as having committed an anti-doping violation because it is classified as a Substance of Abuse.

Kingma accepted the charge and explained that he had taken the substance out of competition. While his admission did lead to Kingma avoiding a lengthier sanction, the ICC confirmed the violation and implemented a suspension.

Kingma will serve a period of ineligibility for three months from August 15, 2025. However, the suspension can be reduced to one month if Kingma completes a rehabilitation or treatment programme approved by the ICC. The ICC also confirmed that all of Kingma’s results from the ODI match on May 12, 2025, and all subsequent applicable matches, have been disqualified in accordance with the ICC Anti-Doping Code.

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ICC suspension sidelines Netherlands seamer after positive test

Kingma has been a crucial component of the Dutch bowling attack since his international debut back in 2013. Although known for swinging the ball with the new ball, he has played ODIs and T20Is for the Netherlands, including appearances at major ICC tournaments. Kingma will be missed as the Dutch team tries to find its footing in the World Cup League 2 competition.

The entire case raises several questions on the ICC’s commitment to preserving the image of the game. In the case of recreational drugs, even if used outside competition, it is just as out of bounds in samples provided during international matches. The governing body mentions that education and knowledge are important to avoid when players think using recreational drugs is acceptable.

For Kingma, the potential return to the international game will now depend on completing the suspension and treatment course (if applicable). As the date of return is uncertain, the Dutch team will need to use other seamers to replace Kingma.