Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) Dinesh Karthik has been reprimanded for breaching Indian Premier League (IPL) Code of Conduct in the eliminator clash against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on May 25.
“Mr. Karthik admitted to the Level 1 offence under Article 2.3 of the IPL Code of Conduct and accepted the sanction. For Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct, the Match Referee’s decision is final and binding,” the statement,” the statement released by IPL mentioned.
However, the released did not reveal the exact reason for the sanction. It is likely Karthik faced the sanction for his reaction after failing to make contact with a delivery bowled by Avesh Khan in the last over of RCB's innings.
The RCB wicketkeeper-batter tried to play the ramp shot but Avesh bowled a short delivery outside off stump which ended up being a dot ball. RCB’s designated finisher did not say anything to the umpire or the opponent team’s player but was animated in his reaction for missing a scoring opportunity.
The 36-year-old remained unbeaten for 37 off 23 deliveries including five fours and one six. His cameo helped RCB post a daunting total of 207/4 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. He provided the much-needed support to Rajat Patidar, who scored an unbeaten 112.
In reply, KL Rahul-led LSG could manage 193/6 and lost the game by 14 runs.
However, breaching the Code of Conduct will not have an effect on Karthik’s participation in the second qualifier.
RCB will face Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the second qualifier at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
Karthik has been in great form with 324 runs from 10 innings at an average of 64.80 including one half-century. He has scored runs at an outstanding strike rate of 187.28. He was picked by RCB in IPL 2022 mega auction for Rs 5.5 crore.
