New Delhi: The Indian Premier League has reprimanded Abhishek Sharma of Sunrisers Hyderabad for breaching the tournament’s Code of Conduct during their match against the Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. The all rounder has been fined 25 percent of his match fee and handed one demerit point following the incident.
The disciplinary action was taken after Sharma admitted to committing a Level 1 offence under Article 2.3 of the IPL Code of Conduct, which relates to the use of audible obscenities during a match. Level 1 breaches are considered minor offences within the league’s disciplinary system, and the decision taken by the match referee in such cases is final and binding.
Although the exact moment that led to the sanction was not specified, Sharma accepted the punishment imposed by the officials. The penalty means he will lose a quarter of his match earnings and will now carry a demerit point on his disciplinary record. Repeated violations of the code can result in stricter penalties, including possible suspension from matches.
Despite the disciplinary action, Sharma delivered an impressive performance with the bat in the same game. The opening batter scored a quick 48 runs from just 21 deliveries, hitting four fours and four sixes. His aggressive start played a key role in building momentum for Sunrisers Hyderabad early in the innings.
In the match itself, Sunrisers Hyderabad registered a convincing 65 run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders. After being asked to bat first, Sharma and Travis Head produced a blistering opening partnership of 82 runs in only 34 balls. Later contributions from Heinrich Klaasen, who scored 52, and Nitish Kumar Reddy, who added 39, helped the team post a strong total of 226 for 8.
In reply, Kolkata Knight Riders were bowled out for 161 in 16 overs despite a fighting half century from Angkrish Raghuvanshi. The Sunrisers bowling attack was led by Jaydev Unadkat with three wickets, while Nitish Kumar Reddy and Eshan Malinga claimed two wickets each to seal the victory.
