The Indian Premier League match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Lucknow Super Giants on Monday night ended in an ugly altercation between Star India batter Virat Kohli and former opener Gautam Gambhir. The two cricketers were fined 100% of their match fees for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct.
The heated argument started when Kohli, who seemed extra animated throughout the fielding innings of RCB, got into a brief interaction with LSG opener Kyle Mayers. While the players were shaking hands after the match, LSG bowler Naveen-ul-Haq and Kohli were seen exchanging words, and RCB’s Glenn Maxwell separated them. This was followed by Gambhir pulling away Mayers from a chat with Kohli.
Gambhir was seen charging towards Kohli even as LSG players, including the injured captain KL Rahul, restrained him. Kohli and Gambhir were involved in a heated argument with players from both sides surrounding them. Gambhir looked the more animated of the two and was repeatedly held back from charging towards Kohli by the LSG players and support staff. Initially, Kohli was seen holding Gambhir’s shoulder, but as the heated exchange continued, veteran spinner Amit Mishra, RCB captain Faf du Plessis and LSG assistant coach Vijay Dahiya stepped in to separate the duo.
Kohli and Gambhir are former India team-mates and have played together for the Delhi state team, but they have had a history of face-offs. The last time when LSG and RCB clashed in Bengaluru in an IPL 2023 game, Gambhir had gestured towards the Bengaluru crowd with a ‘shut up’ sign. They were also involved in a face-off 10 years ago in the IPL during RCB’s match against Kolkata Knight Riders in Bengaluru.
The IPL released a statement that both Kohli and Gambhir admitted to breaching IPL Code of Conduct rules. LSG bowler Naveen-ul-Haq was also fined 50% of his match fee. “LSG Mentor Gautam Gambhir has been fined 100% of his match fee for breaching IPL Code of Conduct during IPL 2023 match against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Mr Gambhir admitted to the Level 2 offence under Article 2.21 of IPL Code of Conduct,” the statement said. “RCB batter Virat Kohli has been fined 100% of his match fee for breaching IPL Code of Conduct during IPL 2023 match against LSG. Mr Kohli admitted to the Level 2 offence under Article 2.21 of IPL Code of Conduct. “LSG bowler Naveen-ul-Haq has been fined 50% of his match fees for breaching IPL Code of Conduct during IPL 2023 match against RCB. Mr Naveen-ul-Haq admitted to the Level 1 offence under Article 2.21 of IPL Code of Conduct.”
This incident highlights the importance of adhering to the Code of Conduct rules in sports. While rivalry and competition are an integral part of any sport, it is essential to maintain decorum and respect towards fellow players, coaches, and officials. Such altercations not only mar the spirit of the game but also set a wrong example for young aspiring players who look up to these cricketers as role models. It is imperative for all stakeholders in sports to uphold the principles of fair play, sportsmanship, and respect for the game.