Top five controversial moments in IPL 2025

The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been underway since March 22, 2025. Like every other season, this year too has witnessed several highs and lows. With half of the matches in IPL 2025 already completed and the tournament has been surrounded by various controversies from both on and off the field.

Despite the issues, fans continue to come to the stadiums to watch the matches and the viewership has soared high across television and in the online streaming platforms. The controversies this season have ranged from incidents during matches to off-field disputes involving commentators, players, and other chaotic situations which made IPL 2025 one of the most eventful seasons.

1. Eden Gardens pitch controversy

In the season opener between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the Rajat Patidar-led RCB secured a seven-wicket victory at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. After the loss, KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane criticised the unhelpful conditions at the ground, which led to the spotlight on curator Sujan Mukherjee for not preparing a pitch that favoured the home team.

In response, Mukherjee defended himself by admitting that the preparation of pitches is overseen by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and the players or franchises are not permitted to be involved in the pitch conditions. The former cricketer turned commentator Simon Doull suggested that if a team is dissatisfied with their home pitch and told the team to change their home ground. The pitch controversy has become a major talking point which stirred discussions among players, franchises, and fans across the IPL 2025 season.