New Delhi: The 9th match of IPL 2025 saw Mumbai Indians (MI) suffer a crushing 36-run defeat against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Saturday at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. This was MI captain Hardik Pandya’s first match of the season, and he made a critical mistake that resulted in a hefty fine of ₹12 lakh.
Why Was Hardik Pandya Fined ₹12 Lakh?
Mumbai Indians failed to complete their 20 overs within the stipulated time, leading to a slow over-rate penalty. According to IPL rules, if a team fails to bowl their overs on time for the first time in a season, the captain is fined ₹12 lakh. If the offense is repeated, the fine increases, and in severe cases, captains can face match suspensions.
The IPL governing body released a statement, saying:
“Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has been fined for maintaining a slow over-rate during the match against Gujarat Titans at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. This was MI’s first slow over-rate offense of the season under IPL’s Code of Conduct (Article 2.2), and as a result, Hardik Pandya has been fined ₹12 lakh.”
How Slow Over Rate Affects Teams in IPL?
Apart from financial penalties, a slow over-rate also affects the team’s on-field performance. For every over that is delayed beyond the stipulated time, the fielding team is forced to keep an additional fielder inside the 30-yard circle, making it easier for the batting side to score runs.
How IPL 2025 Rules Have Changed?
In IPL 2024, Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant faced a one-match ban after his team was found guilty of slow over-rate three times in the season. Even Hardik Pandya was banned for one match last season due to a similar offense. However, IPL 2025 has removed the match ban rule, replacing it with a demerit points system to track repeated offenses.
With Mumbai Indians already struggling in IPL 2025, this penalty adds further pressure on Hardik Pandya. Can MI bounce back after this setback? Fans will be watching closely