Daijiworld Media Network – Kolkata

Kolkata, May 8: Kolkata Knight Riders' ace spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has been fined 25 per cent of his match fees and handed one demerit point for a breach of the IPL Code of Conduct during the high-octane clash against Chennai Super Kings at Eden Gardens on Wednesday.

The spinner was found guilty of violating Article 2.5 of the IPL Code, which pertains to the use of language, gestures or actions that could either provoke an aggressive response from a fellow player or demean them.

In its official statement, the IPL said, “Varun Chakaravarthy admitted to the Level 1 offence under Article 2.5 and accepted the Match Referee’s sanction. For Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct, the Match Referee’s decision is final and binding.”

Article 2.5 covers any form of 'send-off' behaviour directed at a dismissed batter. This includes excessive celebration in close proximity, verbal abuse, or provocative gestures, such as pointing towards the pavilion — all of which can be deemed as unsportsmanlike conduct.

The incident occurred during a tense moment in the match, which ultimately saw CSK edge past KKR by two wickets in a thrilling contest. KKR had posted a competitive total of 179 for 6 on a slow Eden Gardens pitch. Despite a valiant bowling effort — including a standout spell by Chakaravarthy, who returned with impressive figures of 2 for 18 — the Knight Riders were unable to seal the match, denting their playoff aspirations.

Chakaravarthy’s performance, though notable, was overshadowed by the post-dismissal incident that led to disciplinary action.

With KKR now slipping behind in the race for the top four, the team will hope for both better luck on the field and cleaner discipline off it as the tournament enters its final stretch.