Over the years, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen several controversies that has tarnished IPL’s image. As soon as the league came into existence, IPL attracted money, media and motivated men. Since then, controversy has been a constant companion to the franchise-based league. Let us take a look at the top 5 IPL controversies.
Spot Fixing (IPL 2013)
The IPL sank into its biggest controversy when the case of spot-fixing emerged in 2013. The involvement of team owners including Gurunath Meiyappan and Raj Kundra besides key players. The Delhi police also arrested three cricketers – S Sreesanth, Ajit Chandila and Ankeet Chavan – all of whom were part of the Rajasthan Royals. CSK and RR were also banned in IPL for two seasons.
Slapgate incident (IPL 2008)
After the Kings XI Punjab defeated Mumbai Indians in Mohali, Harbhajan Singh was alleged to have slapped Sreesanth on the face with his right hand. The incident gained a lot of limelight during that time. However, the duo of Harbhajan and Sreesanth have now forgotten the past and can also be seen participating together in T20 leagues together.
Sourav Ganguly removal from KKR (IPL 2011)
After repeated failures in IPL, Kolkata Knight Riders decided to part ways with veteran Sourav Ganguly. This did not go down well with the KKR fans as they launched a “No Dada, No KKR” campaign that saw several protests being organised both on the streets and social media.
Luke Pomersbach arrest (IPL 2012)
RCB batter Luke Pomersbach was charged under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code after it was alleged that he followed a lady into her bedroom. Pomersbach was also charged with some unscrupulous behaviour. He also fought with victim’s fiancée as he tried to intervene. Later on, the charges were dropped as the Australian batter also apologized for his actions.
Shahrukh Khan banned from Wankhede (IPL 2012)
Kolkata Knight Riders co-owner Shah Rukh Khan was involved in a heated altercation with a security guard. In IPL 2012, KKR had won the match against the Mumbai Indians as the star’s children and their friends were playing on the ground. When the security person attempted to get them off the ground, Shah Rukh Khan got angry and indulged in a nasty brawl. Later on, he was banned from entering the Wankhede Stadium for five years.
Editors pick
