Australia’s fast bowler Megan Schutt has accepted a two-match suspension handed down by Cricket Australia (CA) due to improper use of prescription medication outside of a competitive context. Despite the medication being non-performance enhancing, Schutt did not conform to the stringent regulations outlined in CA’s Sports Science and Sports Medicine guidelines.
Schutt’s suspension will see her miss the third T20 International against New Zealand and the initial fixture of the WBBL season for the Adelaide Strikers. The breach, described as a “failure to adhere to requirements” regarding prescription medication, took place during an off period before the Bangladesh series.
The statement from CA clarified that the incident was isolated and unrelated to performance enhancing. “We will continue to provide appropriate support to Megan and reinforce the standards and responsibilities expected of everyone representing our game,” added the release.
Schutt issued an apology and affirmed her acceptance of the sanctions. “I fully accept the penalty handed down and apologise for failing to meet the standards expected of me,” she acknowledged. “While this occurred out of competition and was not performance related, I understand that I am responsible for following the Sports Science and Sports Medicine Guidelines.”
During the investigation, Schutt participated in four matches, displaying commendable form by taking 2 for 49 in a WNCL game for South Australia and excelling with figures of 2 for 19, 4 for 36, and 4 for 16 in the ODIs versus Bangladesh. She was available for the initial T20Is against New Zealand but remained unselected.
As per the resolution post-investigation, Schutt will serve the remainder of her suspension in the upcoming third T20I and the Strikers’ WBBL opener against the Melbourne Stars on 31st October.
