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The defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) were eliminated from the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 playoffs race as their match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) was washed out on May 17. In order to cope with unfavourable conditions, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) added 60 minutes of extra time for last nine league stage matches. The decision did not go down well with KKR CEO Venky Mysore as he wrote a strong-worded letter to the BCCI COO Hemang Amin, demanding explanation.
"While these mid-season changes to the rules may be necessary under the circumstances, one would have expected more consistency in the way such changes are being applied," Mysore wrote in the letter as per Cricbuzz.
Mysore pointed out that had the rule been announced during the one-week suspension, it would have been applicable for the KKR versus RCB match as well. He said that there was a chance of a five overs per side game.
"When the IPL re-started (on May 17), it was clear that the first game on May 17 KKR vs RCB was at high risk of being interrupted due to rain in B'lore. The forecast was there for all to see. Not only was the game washed out, but the additional 120 minutes now being applied may have provided a chance of at least a 5 over a side game (sic)."
KKR are currently placed sixth on the points table with 12 points from 12 games. Two of their matches were washed out due to rain. He termed the rule change as 'inconsistent' and he finds the timing of its implemention inappropriate.
"The washout ended KKR's chances of making the playoffs. Such ad hoc decisions and inconsistencies of applying them are not appropriate for a tournament of this standing," Mysore said, adding, "I am sure you also understand why we feel aggrieved."
How the new rule can benefit either MI or DC
To simplify the rule change, now any of the remaining matches can start as late as 9:30 PM if rain plays spoilsport without any deduction of overs. Earlier, teams started losing overs if the game did not start by 8:30 PM.
The extra time may come in handy for teams in contention for playoffs race -- Mumbai Indians (MI) and Delhi Capitals (DC). As forecasted, rain might prevent the game at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai from starting on time. A five overs per side between them can take place starting close to midnight.
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