Sanju Samson’s Rajasthan Royals faced a second over-rate penalty after losing to Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad.
The Rajasthan Royals, led by Sanju Samson, suffered their third loss in the ongoing IPL 2025 season after failing to chase down a massive 200-plus target against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Wednesday night. Adding to their woes, the Royals were found guilty of maintaining a slow over-rate for the second time this season, resulting in a heavy financial penalty for their skipper and other players.
According to a statement released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), “As this was his (Samson) team’s second offence of the season under Article 2.22 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct, which pertains to minimum over-rate offences, Samson was fined INR 24 lakhs.”
The BCCI also confirmed fines for the rest of the playing XI, including the Impact Player. “The rest of the members of the Playing XI, including the Impact Player, will be fined either INR six lakhs or 25 per cent of their respective match fees, whichever is lesser,” the statement added.
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RR were also penalised during their fielding for the slow over-rate, which led to only four fielders being allowed outside the 30-yard circle in the final over of Gujarat’s innings. The hosts made the most of the advantage, scoring 16 runs in the 20th over bowled by Sandeep Sharma, taking their total to a commanding 217/6.
Chasing a stiff target of 218, Rajasthan struggled to build any lasting partnerships. While skipper Samson and Shimron Hetmyer provided a brief glimmer of hope, adding 48 runs for the fifth wicket after Dhruv Jurel’s dismissal in the eighth over, their efforts were not enough to swing the game.
Samson’s dismissal for 41 proved to be the turning point, as Gujarat regained full control and bowled out the Royals for 159 in 19.2 overs, sealing a comprehensive 58-run win. This victory marked Gujarat Titans’ fourth of the season, pushing them to the top of the points table with eight points from five matches. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals, who have played two games fewer, dropped to second place in the standings.
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