Abhishek Sharma fined for code of conduct breach after SRH’s win over KKR

In a disciplinary action following Sunrisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) victory over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Abhishek Sharma has been fined 25% of his match fee and handed one demerit point for breaching the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) Code of Conduct.

The incident occurred during the IPL 2026 match at Eden Gardens on April 2. The SRH opener was found guilty of using language deemed “offensive, obscene or profane,” falling under Article 2.3 of the league’s Code of Conduct.

According to an official IPL statement, Sharma admitted to the Level 1 offence and accepted the sanction imposed by the match referee, whose decision is final and binding in such cases. The regulation covers any audible use of inappropriate language, whether picked up by stump microphones or heard by spectators, including expressions of frustration during play.

While the IPL did not specify the exact moment of the breach, it is widely believed to have stemmed from Sharma’s visible frustration following his controversial dismissal. During the innings, Varun Chakravarthy completed a catch in the deep that was reviewed by the third umpire amid doubts over its validity. Despite the uncertainty, Sharma was adjudged out, prompting a reaction that likely led to the sanction.

Return to form amid controversy

Despite the disciplinary setback, Sharma delivered a strong performance with the bat, scoring 48 off just 21 balls, including four boundaries and four sixes. His innings proved crucial in SRH posting a formidable total of 226.

SRH went on to bowl out KKR for 161 in 16 overs, sealing a comprehensive victory. The Hyderabad side will next face Lucknow Super Giants on April 5 as Sharma looks to build on his return to form.