Daijiworld Media Network - Australia

Australia, Oct 22: Australian fast bowler Megan Schutt has been handed a two-match suspension by Cricket Australia for failing to comply with guidelines governing the use of prescription medication.

The suspension will see Schutt miss the third T20 International against New Zealand women as well as the opening match of the upcoming Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) season.

Cricket Australia said the breach occurred during a period when Schutt was not competing for the national team, ahead of Australia’s series against Bangladesh. The board clarified that the incident was not related to performance enhancement.

“The breach was a failure to adhere to requirements under the Sports Science and Sports Medicine guidelines with regard to prescription medication. This relates to a single incidence which occurred while out of competition and was not for performance-enhancing purposes,” Cricket Australia said in a statement.

The board added that the two-match ban applies to both international and domestic cricket. It also said it would continue to support Schutt while reinforcing the standards and responsibilities expected of players representing Australian cricket.

Following the announcement, Schutt said she accepted the penalty and apologised for failing to meet the standards expected of her.

“I fully accept the penalty handed down and apologise for failing to meet the standards expected of me. I'm sorry for the attention this has caused and appreciate the support I've received,” she said.

Schutt acknowledged that although the incident occurred outside competition and was not performance-related, she was responsible for complying with the Sports Science and Sports Medicine guidelines, which players receive regular education on.

The incident highlights the strict procedures governing prescription medication in professional cricket. While certain non-performance-enhancing medicines are permitted, players must follow the prescribed guidelines and approval requirements.