KKR pacer Harshit Rana suspended and fined for breaching code of conduct once again in IPL 2024

Harshit Rana, the fast bowler for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), has faced severe disciplinary action following his conduct during the IPL game against the Delhi Capitals on Monday evening. Rana has been fined 100% of his match fee and will serve a one-match suspension due to a breach of the IPL Code of Conduct.

The incident that led to these sanctions occurred during the Delhi Capitals' batting innings, involving a near sendoff to batsman Abishek Porel. Although Rana stopped short of a full sendoff, his actions did not go unnoticed by the match officials, leading to his punishment. This marks the second time this season that Rana has been penalized under the same level and article of the IPL code.

Rana committed what is classified as a Level 1 offence under Article 2.5 of the IPL's Code of Conduct. He acknowledged his mistake and accepted the punishment imposed by the Match Referee. In cases of Level 1 breaches, the decisions made by the Match Referee are conclusive and enforceable immediately.

This is not the first instance of disciplinary issues for Rana this season. He previously attracted attention for an inappropriate celebration—a flying kiss—directed at Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Mayank Agarwal after dismissing him earlier in the tournament. That incident resulted in a 60% fine of his match fee. However, with the latest offence, the penalty has escalated to a full match fee forfeiture and a suspension, underscoring a zero-tolerance policy towards repeated breaches of conduct.

Harshit Rana has been a prominent player for KKR this season, proving crucial in their bowling lineup. He has claimed 11 wickets so far, tying with teammates Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy as the top wicket-takers for the team. His aggressive bowling style has been a significant asset for KKR, although it seems his on-field demeanour has occasionally crossed the line, leading to disciplinary actions.

Rana’s suspension will see him missing the upcoming crucial match against the Mumbai Indians, which could be a significant blow to KKR given his form and impact on the game.

India T20 WC squad: Hardik named vice-captain to Rohit, Samson included; Gill, Rinku in reserves