May 8, 2025: Kolkata Knight Riders spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has been fined 25 percent of his match fee and handed one demerit point for a Level 1 breach of the IPL Code of Conduct during the recent match against Chennai Super Kings at Eden Gardens. The game, which saw CSK edge out KKR by two wickets, also ended KKR’s slim hopes of making the playoffs in IPL 2025.
According to the IPL’s official statement, Chakaravarthy admitted to the offence under Article 2.5 and accepted the Match Referee’s sanction. Article 2.5 relates to “any language, action, or gesture directed towards a batter upon dismissal that has the potential to provoke an aggressive reaction.” The decision by the Match Referee is final and binding for Level 1 offences.
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The incident in question occurred when Chakaravarthy dismissed CSK batter Dewald Brevis, who had scored a crucial 52 runs. Following the dismissal, the spinner made a gesture urging Brevis to walk off the field, which led to the disciplinary action.
Despite Chakaravarthy taking two wickets, Brevis’s innings proved vital in CSK’s narrow victory. KKR, now officially out of playoff contention, will wrap up their season with two away matches — against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 10 and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 17.