Hardik Pandya fined 10 per cent match fee, handed one demerit point for ‘abuse of cricket equipment’

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has been fined 10 per cent of his match fee and handed one demerit point for breaching Level 1 of the Indian Premier League’s Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials.

During the match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Eden Gardens on Wednesday, Hardik forcefully knocked the bails off the stumps during a frustrating spell of bowling. The incident occurred on the fourth ball of the 10th over, when Hardik was walking back to his run-up.

READ: KKR vs MI, IPL 2026: Pandey, Powell partnership helps Kolkata Knight Riders stay in hunt for Playoffs

It was this action that found Hardik guilty of breaching Article 2.2, which pertains to “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during a Match.” 

Hardik admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction imposed by match referee Rajiv Seth. Accumulation of four to seven demerit points leads to a one-match suspension.

MI is already out of contention for a place in the Playoffs, having endured a horrid run that has seen the five-time champion win only four games. It will play its last game against the Rajasthan Royals on Sunday.

Published on May 21, 2026