IPL’s Kolkata Knight Riders faced a moment of controversy as their pacer Harshit Rana was fined a substantial portion of his match fees due to a breach of the IPL Code of Conduct during their narrow victory against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the iconic Eden Gardens stadium.
Code Violation Incident
While the details of the breach weren’t explicitly outlined in the IPL statement, it’s speculated that the 22-year-old’s celebratory actions post dismissing Mayank Agarwal might have triggered the code infringement. Following the crucial wicket, Rana’s gesture towards Agarwal, seemingly a flying kiss, raised eyebrows and led to disciplinary action.
Penalty Imposed
Rana faced penalties amounting to 60 percent of his match fees, with separate fines of 10 percent and 50 percent for the respective offenses he committed. The IPL clarified that Rana’s actions fell under Level 1 breaches of Article 2.5 of the IPL Code of Conduct.
Acceptance of Sanctions
Acknowledging his wrongdoing, Rana accepted the sanctions imposed by the Match Referee without contest. The IPL emphasized that for Level 1 breaches, the Match Referee’s decision stands as final and binding.
On-field Performance
Despite the disciplinary setback, Rana showcased composure during the game, playing a pivotal role in defending 13 runs in the final over, securing a victorious start for KKR in the season.
What is IPL Code of Conduct?
The IPL Code of Conduct is a set of regulations established by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to govern the behaviour of players, team officials, and other personnel involved in the Indian Premier League (IPL). This code aims to:
- Maintain Sportsmanship: The Code emphasizes upholding the spirit of cricket by encouraging players to display respect for their opponents, umpires, and the game itself. This includes accepting decisions gracefully, avoiding excessive celebration, and maintaining a positive attitude on the field.
- Ensure Fair Play: The Code outlines rules to prevent cheating, misconduct, and activities that could give an unfair advantage to one team. This includes regulations on match-fixing, doping, and on-field altercations.
- Protect the League’s Reputation: The Code helps maintain the integrity and positive image of the IPL. It discourages actions that could damage the league’s reputation, such as public displays of dissent or disrespectful behavior towards sponsors or fans.
- Provide a Fair Disciplinary Process: The Code establishes a clear system for addressing violations. It outlines different levels of offenses and corresponding penalties, ensuring a fair and consistent approach to disciplinary matters.
