Monday night saw Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir renew their rivalry.
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batter Kohli had a heated discussion with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) team leader Gambhir and Naveen-ul-Haq after RCB’s win.
Gambhir and Kohli were penalised 100% of their match money for IPL code violations.
According to the BCCI, Gambhir and Kohli acknowledged to the Level 2 infraction under Article 2.21 of the IPL Code of Conduct.
LSG bowler Naveen-ul-Haq was fined 50% of his match earnings for IPL Code of Conduct violations. Left-arm seamer admits Level 1 offense. After Royal Challengers Bangalore bowled Lucknow Super Giants out for 108, KL Rahul tried to bat through a leg injury but failed. Kohli animatedly celebrated wickets in the LSG innings.”It’s unbecoming for the game,” former India international Robin Uthappa said on broadcast.
When Lucknow’s Naveen-ul-Haq batted during the chase, Kohli appeared to sledging him. After RCB’s dramatic triumph, a handshake chat became heated, forcing the players to be separated.
It wasn’t Kohli and Gambhir’s first IPL brawl. In 2013, Gambhir led KKR against RCB.
The behavior upset former RCB captain Anil Kumble. The game is full with passion, but you shouldn’t show it. You must talk, but this is unacceptable. Respect the opponent always. Respect the game.”
Last month, Lucknow team leader Gambhir told the Bangalore home fans to stay quiet following LSG’s tight win. When Lucknow lost a wicket, Kohli kissed the crowd and imitated Gambhir by pressing his finger to his lips.
Lucknow Super Giants are third, Royal Challengers Bangalore fifth after Monday’s match.