Rishabh Pant Fined as Jitesh Sharma's Heroics Power RCB to Top-Two IPL Finish

Sports Cricket

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-05-28 08:37:15 |

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In a dramatic IPL 2025 clash, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) faced not only a defeat but also disciplinary action. LSG skipper Rishabh Pant was handed a hefty fine of ₹30 lakh by the BCCI for maintaining a slow over rate during their match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). This was the team’s third such offence of the season under the IPL Code of Conduct. Additionally, the rest of the playing XI, including the Impact Player, were fined ₹12 lakh or 50% of their match fee—whichever was lower.

Despite the penalty and eventual loss, Pant delivered a stunning individual performance, scoring an unbeaten 118 off 61 balls, helping LSG post a formidable total of 227/3. He shared a 152-run partnership with Mitchell Marsh, who contributed 67 runs off 37 balls. Pant's innings reaffirmed his value as the most expensive player in IPL history.

However, RCB responded in spectacular fashion. Stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma played a sensational knock, smashing an unbeaten 85 off just 33 balls, guiding RCB to a six-wicket win with eight balls to spare. This explosive innings helped RCB chase down the target of 228 and secure a top-two finish in the league table, earning them a place in Qualifier 1 against Punjab Kings.

Earlier in the innings, RCB got off to a flying start with Virat Kohli and Phil Salt reaching 50 in just four overs. Although they faced a minor setback in the middle overs, Jitesh's late onslaught, along with Mayank Agarwal, sealed the game for RCB.

With this win, RCB leapfrogged into second place, setting up a high-stakes playoff clash, while LSG's campaign ended on a disappointing note both on and off the field.

Go!