MI Skipper Hardik Pandya Hit with ₹12 Lakh Fine for IPL Breach

In a recent development in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season, Mumbai Indians’ skipper, Hardik Pandya, found himself on the receiving end of a penalty following his team’s breach of the IPL Code of Conduct. The incident occurred during a match against Punjab Kings held at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the imposition of a fine amounting to ₹12 lakh on Pandya after Mumbai Indians were found guilty of maintaining a slow over rate during the aforementioned encounter. This marked the first over-rate violation by MI in the ongoing season.

According to the official release by the BCCI, Mumbai Indians’ sluggish over rate compelled the team management to face consequences, resulting in a penalty for their captain. The breach forced MI to play the crucial final two overs of the match against Punjab Kings with only four fielders stationed outside the inner ring, instead of the mandated five.

The repercussions of the slow over rate were nearly detrimental for Mumbai Indians, as they faced a precarious situation in the match against Punjab Kings. The champions had to operate with reduced fielding options, putting additional pressure on their bowling unit during the crucial juncture of the game.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to the regulations set forth by the IPL governing body. Despite Mumbai Indians’ illustrious history in the tournament, the franchise and its captain have been reminded of the necessity to maintain the prescribed over-rate standards to avoid such penalties in the future.