Rishabh Pant IPL 2025 Slow Over Rate Fine Overshadows 118* Knock Against RCB

Rishabh Pant’s IPL 2025 ended on a mixed note, blending a stunning batting performance with a costly slow over rate fine. The LSG captain smashed a brilliant 118* off just 61 balls, the highlight of his season, pushing Lucknow Super Giants to a formidable 227/3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. However, despite Pant’s blazing innings, the slow over rate penalty cast a shadow over the day. This wasn’t just any fine — the BCCI hit Pant with a ₹30 lakh penalty for the third slow over rate offense this season, a hefty price that surpassed the usual ₹12 lakh fine for captains.

Slow Over Rate Penalty and Its Impact

The focus on slow over rate in IPL 2025 has been strict, and Pant’s LSG fell foul once again. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the punishment following Match No. 70 at Lucknow’s Ekana Cricket Stadium. Because it was LSG’s third offense, the captain faced the steep ₹30 lakh fine, while the rest of the playing XI, including the Impact Player, faced smaller penalties of either ₹12 lakh or half their match fees — whichever was lower. This strict enforcement highlights the importance the IPL places on maintaining pace and flow during games.

Pant’s Blistering Knock vs RCB

Despite the fine, Pant’s knock was a spectacle. Batting at No. 3, he was quick off the mark, racing to a 29-ball half-century. His unbeaten 118 included eight sixes and eleven fours, powering LSG to a high total. He shared a massive 152-run partnership with Mitchell Marsh, who contributed 67 runs. This powerful batting display gave Lucknow a strong platform, but unfortunately, it wasn’t enough as RCB chased the target down in just 18.4 overs with six wickets to spare.

IPL 2025 Playoff Picture Update

With this win, Royal Challengers Bengaluru made IPL history by winning all their away games this season. They now face table-toppers Punjab Kings in their next match. Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans dropped to third and will face Mumbai Indians in the eliminator match. The playoff format still leaves chances for teams as the loser of qualifier 1 will get another shot at the final.

In summary, while Rishabh Pant’s 118* was a thrilling innings for cricket fans, the slow over rate fine reminds everyone that discipline on the field matters as much as the runs scored. Cricket Army will be watching closely to see how Pant and LSG respond in the final stages of IPL 2025.