Nitish Rana penalised after on-field argument with umpire in IPL 2026

Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu): Nitish Rana faced disciplinary action after an argument with the fourth umpire during an IPL 2026 match. The BCCI imposed a fine on him following the incident. The dispute took place during the match between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals when a request to allow a player onto the field was denied by the umpire.

The issue arose when Tristan Stubbs called Karun Nair from the dugout to change gloves during an over but the fourth umpire refused permission as per rules. According to IPL officials Rana was fined 25 percent of his match fee and given one demerit point for a Level 1 breach of the code of conduct related to inappropriate language. He later admitted the mistake and accepted the decision of the match referee. The argument took place during the 19th over even though Rana was not part of the playing eleven.

The match was also affected by extreme heat with players struggling on the field. Stubbs and David Miller were seen cooling themselves during a timeout. Stubbs was later dismissed while attempting a big shot and returned to the pavilion visibly frustrated. In the match Sanju Samson played a brilliant unbeaten innings of 115 runs leading Chennai to a total of 212 for 2. In reply Delhi were bowled out for 189 giving Chennai a 23 run victory and ending their losing run at home.