Lucknow Super Giants skipper Rishabh Pant received a fine of Rs 12 lakh after a Code of Conduct violation during their Indian Premier League 2026 clash against Chennai Super Kings on Friday. As captain of the Lucknow franchise, Pant is tasked with making sure the side completes its full 20-over quota within the required time. The IPL Governing Council found that discipline in over-timing was not maintained, leading to the reprimand and the monetary penalty for the skipper.
The league said Pant breached Article 2.22 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct. While he is not the first captain to be hit with a similar sanction, with roughly two weeks remaining before the tournament ends, he will not be the last either.
In its official statement, the IPL laid out the details of the punishment. “Rishabh Pant, Captain, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), has been fined after his team maintained a slow over-rate during Match No. 59 of TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow on Friday.”
The release further explained that this was Pant’s first offence of the season under Article 2.22, which covers minimum over-rate issues. “As this was his team’s first offence of the season under Article 2.22 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct, which pertains to minimum over-rate offences, Rishabh Pant was fined INR 12 lakhs,” the statement added.
Turning to the match itself, Pant credited the team’s collective work and clarity about roles for their seven-wicket victory over CSK. Speaking after the game at the presentation, he said the result mattered not just for the standings, but also for the mindset of the group amid a difficult stretch of the season.
“It feels good. Getting a win definitely feels good. The things we talk about, of having a lot to play for, regardless of how the season ends, we take a lot of pride,” Pant said.
He also singled out pacer Akash Singh, praising him for keeping his bowling disciplined and for consistently carrying out plans. “He has been working hard. Sometimes, it is harder to give everyone a game. He is one guy who sticks to the plan more often, and it definitely paid off. Really good to see,” Pant added.
Pant went on to elaborate on the team’s batting strategy, explaining the thinking behind promoting Josh Inglis and another overseas batter higher in the order, with Nicholas Pooran operating at number three. The skipper highlighted that Lucknow’s approach is not rigid and can be adjusted based on the situation.
“That was the first thought – to get two overseas to open, with Nicky (Pooran) batting three. Four fast bowlers, it has been working for us,” he said.
Finally, Pant stressed the importance of staying simple in a high-pressure environment. “The team we have is so amazing. The only thing that can harm us is having too many thought processes,” he noted.
