Mumbai Indians secured their place in the IPL 2025 playoffs with a convincing win over Delhi Capitals. However, despite the victory, Rohit Sharma’s side faced a penalty for violating a key on-field regulation. During their bowling innings, Mumbai breached the ‘off-side fielders’ rule, prompting the umpire to call a no-ball.
The incident occurred in the fifth over of Delhi’s innings. Will Jacks was bowling when controversy struck. Right after Abishek Porel was dismissed, the very next delivery was declared a no-ball by the umpire. Interestingly, the ball wasn’t over the waist, Jacks hadn’t overstepped, and there was nothing obviously wrong with the delivery.
The reason became clear shortly after. According to IPL Rule 28.4.1, no more than four fielders are allowed on the leg side (on-side) at the time of delivery. However, Mumbai had five fielders positioned on the on-side, leaving only three on the off-side—thus violating the rule. As per the regulations, at least four fielders must be on the off-side, and the umpire was correct in declaring it a no-ball.
Fortunately for Mumbai, the infraction did not affect the outcome of the match. Chasing 181, the team kept Delhi in control throughout the innings. The standout performer was Suryakumar Yadav, who played a stellar knock, remaining unbeaten on 73 off 43 balls, including 7 fours and 4 sixes, leading Mumbai to a crucial win.
UA / TDS
