In a rain-curtailed match at Eden Gardens, Kolkata Knight Riders‘ Ramandeep Singh found himself at the center of attention not just for his cricketing prowess but also for a breach of the IPL Code of Conduct. The 27-year-old admitted to a Level 1 offence under Article 2.20 of the Code and accepted a fine amounting to 20% of his match fees imposed by the Match Referee.

On-field heroics and off-field penalty

Despite this setback, KKR emerged victorious against the Mumbai Indians, securing an 18-run win in a tightly contested encounter. Ramandeep played a crucial role in the victory, contributing an unbeaten 17 runs off just 8 balls in the latter overs of the first innings, helping his team reach a competitive total of 157/7.

“Ramandeep committed a Level 1 offence under Article 2.20 of the IPL Code of Conduct,” the IPL said in a statement on Sunday.

His impact wasn’t limited to batting alone, as he also took a crucial catch to dismiss Suryakumar Yadav during Mumbai Indians’ run-chase.

KKR steal victory against MI

This stellar performance by Ramandeep and the team’s overall effort led to KKR restricting Mumbai Indians to 139/8, sealing a memorable win and securing their place in the playoffs.

According to the IPL’s Code of Conduct, Article 2.20 “includes any action(s) outside the course of normal cricket actions, such as hitting or kicking the wickets and any action(s) which deliberately (i.e. intentionally), recklessly or negligently (in either case even if accidental) results in damage to the advertising boards, boundary fences, dressing room doors, mirrors, windows and other fixtures and fittings. For example, this offence may be committed, without limitation, when a Player swings his/her bat vigorously in frustration and causes damage to an advertising board.”

See Also: KKR survive batting collapse at Eden Gardens, set 158-run target for MI

With this victory, Kolkata Knight Riders became the first team to secure a playoff berth this season, firmly establishing themselves at the top of the table with 18 points from 12 matches. Their outstanding performance has set a high standard for the competition, with the Rajasthan Royals closely following them at the second spot with 16 points, also well on their way to playoff qualification.