In a dramatic turn of events at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has been slapped with a hefty fine of Rs 24 lakhs for maintaining a slow over-rate during their IPL 2025 clash against the Gujarat Titans. This marks the second time Samson has been penalized for this offense in the season, triggering a significant financial penalty not only for him but also for the entire playing XI, including the impact player.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the penalty, stating, “As this was his team’s second offence of the season under Article 2.22 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct, which pertains to minimum over-rate offences, Samson was fined INR 24 lakhs.” The rest of the team members faced fines of either Rs 6 lakhs or 25% of their match fees, whichever was lesser.
The match itself was a thrilling encounter, with the Gujarat Titans securing a convincing 58-run victory over the Royals. Set a challenging target of 218, Rajasthan Royals were bowled out for just 159 in 19.2 overs. The Titans’ opener, Sai Sudharsan, played a pivotal role, notching up his third half-century of the season. Sudharsan has now accumulated 273 runs in five matches, placing him second only to Lucknow Super Giants’ Nicholas Pooran, who leads with 288 runs.
The bowling attack for the Titans was led by the impressive Prasidh Krishna, who claimed figures of 3-24, significantly contributing to the Royals’ downfall. Despite a valiant effort from Shimron Hetmyer, who top-scored with 52, the Royals couldn’t overcome the Titans’ formidable total.
With this win, the Gujarat Titans have bolstered their position in the tournament, now holding eight points from four wins in five games. Their only loss came against the Punjab Kings in a high-scoring opening game at home. On the other hand, the Rajasthan Royals, who entered the match on the back of consecutive victories against Chennai Super Kings and Punjab, find themselves in seventh place after five matches.