Mumbai Indians’ batting coach, Kieron Pollard, has been penalized by the BCCI for violating the IPL Code of Conduct during a match against Punjab Kings at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala. Pollard has been fined 15% of his match fee and received a demerit point for the incident, which involved the use of abusive language towards the fourth umpire during the 19th over of the second innings. This breach falls under Article 2.3 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials.
The IPL issued a statement confirming Pollard’s fine and demerit point, stating that he breached Level 1 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct. Pollard admitted to the offense and accepted the sanction imposed by Match Referee, Pankaj Dharmani. Mumbai Indians’ victory over Punjab Kings helped them end their season on a positive note, despite being out of playoff contention. Meanwhile, Punjab Kings suffered their fifth consecutive loss, failing to defend a total of 200 after starting the season with a seven-match unbeaten streak.
With only two matches remaining, Punjab Kings face a tough task to keep their playoff hopes alive, as another loss could dash their chances. The match also saw a remarkable batting performance by Tilak Varma, who scored an unbeaten 75 off 33 balls, leading Mumbai Indians’ charge with six fours and six sixes. Mumbai Indians, the five-time champions, will now have a five-day break before taking on Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens next week.
