In a surprising turn of events, Delhi Capitals’ skipper Rishabh Pant has been slapped with a one-match suspension for breaching the slow over-rate rule, consequently ruling him out of the crucial match against Royal Challengers Bangalore. With both teams eyeing a spot in the playoffs, Pant’s absence comes as a significant blow to Delhi Capitals’ campaign.
In Pant’s absence, the reins of the team will be handed over to Axar Patel for the match against RCB. However, the suspension didn’t come without financial repercussions for the Capitals, as they were fined INR 30 lakh for the over-rate breach. Additionally, each player, including the Impact Player, faces a fine of either INR 12 lakh or 50% of their match fees.
The decision came after Delhi Capitals filed an appeal challenging the ruling, which was subsequently upheld by the BCCI ombudsman, following a virtual hearing attended by cricketing stalwarts Sourav Ganguly, Ricky Ponting, and Sunil Gupta. Delhi Capitals cited various reasons for the delay, including a barrage of sixes by Rajasthan Royals batters and contentious moments such as the dismissal of Sanju Samson.
Ponting, addressing the issue, mentioned the team’s awareness of Pant’s previous over-rate penalties but defended the decision not to stand him down from captaincy. He also highlighted Khaleel’s over, marred by four wides, which further derailed the team’s attempt to catch up with the required over-rate.
While Pant’s absence is undeniably a loss for Delhi Capitals, Ponting views it as an opportunity for others to step up and fill the void. Currently sitting at fifth place on the table with 12 points and a net run rate of -0.316, Delhi Capitals will look to bounce back and keep their playoff hopes alive in Pant’s absence.
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