IPL 2019: MI skipper Rohit Sharma slapped with a fine for slow over rate

The game against Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) turned from bad to worse for Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper Rohit Sharma. The three-time IPL winners did not only lose the game but their skipper was also fined INR 12 Lakh for slow over-rate during the game in Mohali. The game, starting at 4 PM stretched well beyond the stipulated 7:30 PM before the Ravi Ashwin-led Punjab clinched the game to return back to winning ways.

MI had a day to forget in Mohali. Buoyed by the win against Royal Challengers Bangalore in their previous game, the visitors would have loved to make the most of the momentum against the side which had entered the contest on the back of a loss. However, the Rohit Sharma-led side succumbed against the resurgent Punjab side. Asked to bat first, Mumbai kept losing wickets at crucial junctures which never allowed them to get the impetus.

They had started well with the bat after being asked to bat first. Rohit Sharma and Quinton de Kock added 51 runs in just 31 deliveries before the former threw away another start. From thereon, barring de Kock who scored 60, no other Mumbai batsmen could hold on to play a big inning. Hardik Pandya then scored a quick 31 to guide the team to a competitive total of 176 for 7.

In reply, KL Rahul and Chris Gayle started the proceedings cautiously, taking their time to get their eyes set. The two added 53 runs for the first wicket before Krunal Pandya struck to remove Gayle. Mayank Agarwal then gave the chase the much-needed push by scoring 43 off just 21. Rahul then scored an unbeaten fifty to inflict the second defeat of the season on Mumbai Indians.

Rohit pays the price:

As if the defeat was not enough for Mumbai Indians, their skipper had to cough up a big amount for the slow over-rate. The Indian Premier League confirmed the news through an official release, stating that Rohit was fined INR 12 lakh as it was the team’s first offence of the season.

“As it was his team’s first offence of the season, under the IPL’s Code of Conduct relating to minimum over-rate offences, Mr. Sharma was fined Rs 12 lakh,” said an IPL media release.

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