In an eventful finish to Delhi Capitals’ innings during Match 35 of IPL 2025 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Gujarat Titans were penalised for a slow over rate, forcing them to have only four fielders outside the circle during the final over.
The drama unfolded after Ishant Sharma bowled the 19th over and then walked off the field. The 36-year-old pacer had earlier exited due to dehydration and heat-related illness, but returned briefly to complete his spell, even picking up a wicket. However, soon after completing his final delivery, he left the field again, prompting Gujarat Titans to bring in Sherfane Rutherford as the Impact Player.
While there was initial confusion regarding Ishant’s quick exit and the substitution, the real reason for the field restriction penalty was later confirmed to be Gujarat Titans’ slow over rate. According to IPL rules, if a team fails to complete their overs in the allotted time, they are penalised by having one fewer fielder outside the 30-yard circle for the remaining overs. In this case, that meant only four fielders were allowed outside the circle during the 20th over, which was bowled by Sai Kishore.
The umpires were seen in a brief discussion with GT skipper Shubman Gill, and eventually signalled the penalty before allowing the over to proceed.
Despite the heated conditions and tactical confusion, Ishant Sharma’s effort stood out, returning with 2.5-0-19-1 in a high-scoring game, pushing through illness to support his side.
