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The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been the pinnacle of T20 cricket since its inception in 2008. Over the years, the league has witnessed some unforgettable moments that have shocked cricket fans around the world. However, it has also seen some shocking incidents that have left fans stunned and bewildered. Here are 10 of the most shocking moments in IPL history:
1. Spot-fixing scandal in IPL (2013)
The IPL was rocked by a spot-fixing scandal in 2013, which led to the arrest of three Rajasthan Royals players – Sreesanth, Ajit Chandila, and Ankeet Chavan. The players were accused of accepting money to concede a predetermined number of runs in a match. The incident is a black mark on the IPL and makes it one of the most shocking moments in IPL history.
2. Kieron Pollard’s bat-throwing incident (2014)
In a heated match between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore at Wankhede Stadium, Kieron Pollard threw his bat at Mitchell Starc after the latter bowled a bouncer at him. The two players had exchanged words earlier in the over and were separated by umpires and teammates. Both players were fined for their misconduct.
3. Ashwin’s ‘Mankading’ of Buttler (2019)
In one of the most controversial incidents in IPL history, Kings XI Punjab captain Ravichandran Ashwin ran out Rajasthan Royals batsman Jos Buttler at the non-striker’s end without giving him a warning. Ashwin claimed that he was within his rights to do so as Buttler had left his crease before the ball was delivered. However, many cricket experts and fans criticized Ashwin for violating the spirit of cricket. The incident is regarded as one of the most shocking moments in IPL,
4. Chris Gayle’s record-breaking 175* (2013)
In one of the most destructive innings ever seen in T20 cricket, Chris Gayle smashed an unbeaten 175 off just 66 balls for Royal Challengers Bangalore against Pune Warriors India at M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Gayle hit 17 sixes and 13 fours in his knock and helped RCB post a mammoth total of 263/5 -the highest ever score in T20 history.
5. Virat Kohli’s angry outburst at umpire (2019)
In a tense match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Mumbai Indians at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Virat Kohli lost his cool after umpire S Ravi failed to spot a no-ball by Lasith Malinga on the final delivery when RCB needed seven runs to win. Kohli stormed onto the field after losing by six runs and expressed his displeasure at the umpiring error.
6. Zaheer Khan’s last-ball six (2008)
In a thrilling encounter between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk Stadium, Zaheer Khan hit a six off Albie Morkel on the last ball to win the match for Mumbai by one wicket. Zaheer had come to bat at number 11 with nine runs required off four balls. He smashed two fours and a six to seal an improbable victory for his team.
7. MS Dhoni’s rare dissent against umpire (2019)
In another instance of poor umpiring during IPL 2019, Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni did something he rarely does – show dissent against an umpire’s decision. Dhoni walked onto the field from the dugout after umpire Ulhas Gandhe signalled a no-ball for height but then changed his mind following a discussion with his colleague. Dhoni was visibly angry and argued with both umpires before returning to his dugout. He was later fined 50 percent of his match fee for breaching the IPL code of conduct.
8. Rohit Sharma’s dismissal after hitting a six (2010)
In a match between Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens, Rohit Sharma hit a six off Sourav Ganguly but was given out caught behind by umpire Asad Rauf. The ball had clearly missed Rohit’s bat and glove and only brushed his shirt on its way to the wicketkeeper. Rohit was stunned by the decision and expressed his disbelief as he walked back to the dressing room.
9. Brendon McCullum’s historic century in IPL opener
In the inaugural match of the IPL in 2008, Brendon McCullum lit up the tournament with a sensational century for Kolkata Knight Riders against Royal Challengers Bangalore. His 158* off just 73 balls was a remarkable feat and set the tone for the tournament. The innings stunned the fans and created a one of the most shocking moments in IPL history.
10. CSK and RR’s suspension from IPL
In 2015, the Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were suspended from the IPL for two years due to their involvement in the spot-fixing scandal. This was a massive blow to both teams and their fans creating one of the most shocking moments in IPL history.
These are the 10 most shocking moments in IPL history that left cricket fans around the world in awe. These moments are a testament to the excitement and unpredictability that the IPL brings to the cricketing world year after year. What was your most shocking moment in IPL history? Comment and let us know.
Also read about the top 5 run scorers in IPL history here.
