IPL 2026, Shreyas Iyer fined ₹12 lakh: Here's why
What's the story
Captain Shreyas Iyer has been fined ₹12 lakh for Punjab Kings' slow over-rate during their Indian Premier League IPL) 2026 match against Gujarat Titans (GT). The fine was imposed pursuant to Article 2.22 of the IPL's Code of Conduct, which addresses minimum over-rate offenses. This is the first time this season that a captain has been penalized for such an offense.
Match details
IPL released a statement regarding the fine
The IPL released a statement saying, "Punjab Kings Captain Shreyas Iyer has been fined after his team maintained a slow over-rate during Match No. 4 of the TATA Indian Premier League 2026 against Gujarat Titans at the New International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh." Since this was PPBK's first offense of the season under Article 2.22 of the IPL's Code of Conduct, which pertains to minimum over-rate offenses, Iyer was fined ₹12 lakh.
Match highlights
PBKS secured three-wicket win over GT
Despite the slow over-rate penalty, Punjab Kings secured a close three-wicket win over Gujarat in their IPL 2026 opener. Young Australian batter Cooper Connolly was instrumental in this victory, scoring an unbeaten 72 off 44 balls. He helped the Kings chase down 163 in the final-over thriller. His stellar performance on his IPL debut earned him the Player of the Match award.
Captain's remarks
Iyer lauds Cooper Connolly after match
After the match, Iyer stressed on the importance of staying calm in tough situations. He said, "I was focused on my hand inside, icing it, and suddenly we lost two wickets back to back; these things happen in the IPL." On Connolly's innings, he said, "Cooper has got a great mindset, and I hope he continues his form. I have seen him play for Australia."