Delhi Capitals faced a major setback ahead of their crucial IPL 2024 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru as their captain, Rishabh Pant, was suspended for one match and fined ₹30 lakh by the BCCI. This decision came after Pant’s team was found guilty of maintaining a slow over rate for the third time in the season during their recent match against Rajasthan Royals.
According to IPL regulations, the first instance of a slow over rate offense incurs a fine of ₹12 lakh for the captain, followed by ₹24 lakh for the second offense. The third offense, as in Pant’s case, results in a one-match suspension along with a ₹30 lakh fine. Additionally, other players in the Playing XI were fined ₹12 lakh or 50% of their match fees, whichever was lower.
Delhi Capitals appealed against the match referee’s decision, but the BCCI Ombudsman upheld the suspension after a virtual hearing. This ruling left DC without their captain for the crucial match against RCB, likely leading to David Warner taking over as stand-in captain.
Losing Pant was a significant blow for DC, not just because of his leadership but also his impressive performance as a batter and wicketkeeper throughout the season. With only two matches left before the playoffs and a precarious net run rate, DC’s chances hinge on winning both games without their key player. Pant’s contribution of 413 runs in 12 matches at a strike rate of 156 underscores his importance to the team’s success.
