IPL 2017: Kings XI Punjab's Sandeep Sharma fined 50% of his match fees

What’s the story?

Kings XI Punjab fast bowler Sandeep Sharma was fined 50% of his match fee for showing dissent after a no ball that went against him during the IPL 2017 game between Kings XI Punjab and Gujarat Lions at Mohali. The fast bowler accepted the sanction and no further action will be made.

In a media release, IPL said: “Mr. Sharma admitted to the Level 1 offence 2.1.5 of the IPL Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials and accepted the sanction, as such there was no need for a formal hearing.

Extra Cover: IPL 2017, KXIP vs GL: Fiasco between Sandeep Sharma and Umpire is SK turning point of the match

In case you didn’t know…

The incident took place in the fifth over of Gujarat Lions’ chase, Sandeep Sharma came around the wicket and bowled a full ball, angling in at Ishan Kishan but the umpire signaled a no ball. At the top of his mark, before delivering the ball, the bowler seemed to indicate to the umpire that he was changing ends but the umpire didn’t deem it as such and called it a no ball as Smith was standing at the same end that the bowler was bowling from.

Sharma was visibly frustrated at the umpire for not informing Smith to change ends and not only angrily snatched the cap away from the umpire but also seemed to have some unsavory words for the umpire. Glenn Maxwell wasn't too happy either and the incident left both captain and bowler in an animated state after what they perceived to be the wrong call even if the no ball didn’t cost the team much.

The heart of the matter

Under IPL Code of Conduct For Players and Team Officials, Level 1 offence, Article 2.1.5, which deals with the issue of dissent at an umpire’s decision, states:

2.1.5 Showing dissent at an Umpire’s decision during a Match.NOTE: Article 2.1.5 includes: (a) excessive, obvious disappointment with an Umpire’s decision; (b) an obvious delay in resuming play or leaving the wicket; (c) shaking the head; (d) pointing or looking at the edge of his bat when given out lbw; (e) pointing to the pad or rubbing the shoulder when caught behind; (f) snatching the cap from the Umpire; (g) requesting a referral to the TV Umpire and (h) arguing or entering into a prolonged discussion with the Umpire about his decision.

In this scenario, Sandeep Sharma wasn’t happy with the no-ball decision and snatched the cap away from the umpire and was visibly irate. And thus fell foul of the Code of Conduct rules and was penalized.

What’s next?

Sandeep Sharma will hope to continue his good form with the ball in Kings XI’s next game, which is against Kolkata Knight Riders at Mohali on May 9 (Wednesday).

Author’s Take

The incident certainly swung the tide firmly in Gujarat Lions’ favor as the hosts didn’t look the same after that. At the top of his run-up it seemed as though the bowler was informing the umpire of his decision to go around the wicket but the fact that a no ball was signaled suggests otherwise. Kings XI and Sandeep have to put this issue behind them and concentrating on winning their remaining games and qualifying for the playoffs.