Hampshire’s Keith Barker has been cleared to return to professional cricket on July 4, following a nine-month wait to learn the outcome of his failed drug test. The all-rounder tested positive for the prohibited substance indapamide, which he had been prescribed to treat high blood pressure. Barker, 38, has since explained that the positive test stemmed from what he described as a “genuine administrative error” and said he feared for the future of his career during the prolonged period of uncertainty.
Barker was informed about the failed test almost a year ago, after taking an out-of-competition test. He was provisionally suspended, and the decision on his ban was finally announced in April 2025. The hearing determined that Barker had tested positive for indapamide, a substance classified by WADA as a diuretic. While the drug is commonly prescribed for hypertension, it is banned in sports because it can mask the presence of other performance-enhancing substances.
In a statement, Barker admitted that the whole process had been mentally taxing and left him with a constant fear of losing his career. He acknowledged the significant strain the situation had placed on him, having been forced to step away from a sport he had loved since childhood. However, Barker expressed relief now that he could return to the game he cherished, adding that his hope was for young professionals to learn from his experience and be extra vigilant about the medications they take and the anti-doping procedures in place.
The substance in question, indapamide, is typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure. According to Hampshire’s club statement, the failed drug test was due to an administrative error between medical professionals and Barker. Barker had been prescribed the drug after his previous medication, which was not banned, failed to adequately manage his condition. The club’s doctor was aware of the prescription, and Barker’s own medical staff did not raise any concerns regarding the drug’s use. However, Barker admitted that he did not personally check whether indapamide was on the list of banned substances provided by WADA.
While the tribunal acknowledged that the error was not Barker’s fault, they also concluded that he bore some responsibility for not ensuring that the medication was allowed. Despite this, the suspension was reduced from the mandatory two years that would have applied in the case of a positive test to just 12 months, due to the fact that Barker had no significant fault or negligence in the matter.
Hampshire’s director of cricket, Giles White, expressed regret over the situation but noted that it was the result of a mistake, and praised Barker as an exceptional professional. White further emphasized that the club would be supporting Barker in his return to action, with the team looking forward to welcoming him back into first-team duties. Barker’s contributions to Hampshire over the past six years had made him a firm favorite among the club’s fans, and the supporters had shown great patience during the lengthy process.
Before his time at Hampshire, Barker had an extensive career in first-class cricket, having made his debut for Warwickshire in 2009. Over the years, he has claimed 533 first-class wickets and scored six centuries. His time at Hampshire, which began after the 2018 season, has seen him continue to be an important player for the club. His return to professional cricket is a relief to him and his fans, as he looks forward to resuming his career after this difficult chapter.
