Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2025 saw both skippers, Hardik Pandya (Mumbai Indians) and Shreyas Iyer (Punjab Kings), fined for slow over-rates, despite the game being delayed due to rain. The high-stakes match, eventually won by Punjab Kings, was played at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium but was marred by sluggish over-rate issues from both sides.
Rain Delays and Altered Playing Conditions
The game got off to a delayed start after rain interrupted proceedings just after the toss. Due to the unseasonal showers, the IPL authorities allowed an extra two hours to ensure the match could be completed. While this provision ensured a full match was possible, the slow over-rates meant the game stretched well beyond the scheduled finish time.
This was the second offence for Punjab Kings, and as a result, Shreyas Iyer was fined ₹24 Lakh. Mumbai Indians’ skipper Hardik Pandya faced a heftier penalty of ₹30 Lakh, marking his third slow over-rate violation of the season.
Team Fines and New Rule Changes in IPL 2025
It wasn’t just the captains who faced consequences. The rest of the Punjab Kings squad was fined ₹6 Lakh or 25% of their match fee, whichever was lower. On the other hand, Mumbai Indians players were penalized ₹12 Lakh or 50% of their match fee, whichever amounted to less.
In previous seasons, a third slow over-rate offence would have led to a one-match suspension for the captain. In fact, Pandya had to sit out the first game of IPL 2025 due to such a ban from last season. However, starting this year, match suspensions have been removed from the list of penalties for repeated over-rate violations, replaced instead with heavier fines.
PBKS and RCB to Clash in IPL 2025 Final
With Mumbai Indians eliminated, the IPL will see a new champion this year. Punjab Kings will take on Royal Challengers Bangalore in the much-anticipated final on June 3. PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer led from the front in Qualifier 2, playing a match-winning knock of 87 not out off just 41 balls.
All eyes are now on the final in Chennai, where one of these teams will lift their maiden IPL trophy.
