Top News

New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has fined Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel after a thrilling match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Axar Patel has been fined Rs 12 lakh for maintaining a slow over-rate despite a spectacular win against Punjab Kings in Dharamshala. This was Delhi Capitals’ first violation of the season, so only a fine was imposed.

Slow over-rate problem persists

The problem of slow over-rate in IPL 2026 has been continuously discussed. Many captains have already been punished for this reason, including Shreyas Iyer, Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya. BCCI had changed the rule in 2025, after which the captain is not suspended for committing a double offence.

Delhi’s memorable victory

Delhi Capitals defeated Punjab Kings by 3 wickets while chasing a big target of 211 runs. This was one of their toughest victories this season. Along with captaincy, Akshar Patel showed excellence in batting as well. He scored 56 runs in 30 balls, which included 8 fours and 2 sixes. This was his first IPL half-century of this season.

David Miller also made an important contribution by scoring 51 runs in 28 balls. Ashutosh Sharma (24*) and Madhav Tiwari (18*) played good innings in the lower order. The most exciting moment of the match came on the last ball of the last over, when Auqib Nabi Dar gave victory to Delhi by hitting a six off Yash Thakur.

Akshar Patel’s statement

After the win, Akshar Patel said that his partnership with David Miller took over the match. He also praised young players Ashutosh and Madhav, who performed well under pressure. This victory of Delhi has made the playoff race more interesting, but due to slow over-rate, captain Akshar Patel had to suffer financial loss.