IPL 2025: Shubman Gill was close to punching the umpire, netizens react as suspension looms for GT skipper

Gujarat Titans (GT) captain Shubman Gill may face potential suspension after two heated confrontations with umpires during Friday’s IPL 2025 clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). While GT secured a crucial 38-run win, Gill’s fiery outbursts overshadowed the victory, sparking polarising reactions online and raising questions about disciplinary action.

The first flashpoint occurred during GT’s innings when Gill (76 off 38 balls) was controversially run out. Third umpire footage showed SRH keeper Heinrich Klaasen’s gloves brushing the stumps milliseconds before the ball dislodged the bails.

Gill, convinced his bat was grounded, argued fiercely with the fourth umpire while exiting the field.

Tempers flared again during SRH’s chase. In the 14th over, Prasidh Krishna’s yorker struck Abhishek Sharma’s boot, but the LBW review only showed “umpire’s call” on impact.

With no data on the ball’s pitching point, Gill exploded at the officials, prompting Sharma to physically intervene and defuse the situation.

Netizens Divided: Passion vs. Protocol

Fans clashed on social media over Gill’s aggression. Some defended his passion: “Umpiring errors cost games. Gill had every right to react!”

Others criticised his conduct: “Disgraceful behaviour. IPL isn’t a street brawl—respect the spirit!” A viral clip of Gill gesturing angrily, captioned “He was close to punching the umpire,” fueled debates on sportsmanship.

Shubman was this close🤏 to punch the shit of the umpire! pic.twitter.com/MnYKWDxBpZ

— Co Coa👀☆♡~~•◇ (@dimples_7_7) May 2, 2025

The day isn’t far when Shubman Gill might land a punch straight on the umpire’s face. 🤣 pic.twitter.com/OuuhO6lH1A

— Selfless⁴⁵ (@SelflessCricket) May 2, 2025

Shubman Gill match khatam hone se pehle lagta hai Umpire ko superman punch ya phir chokeslam dekee hi rahega #GTvsSRHpic.twitter.com/VM3YqAqFPx

— leviman (@Levi20Man) May 2, 2025

ALSO READ: Shubman Gill refuses to ‘apologise’ for aggression against IPL 2025 umpires in SRH clash

Suspension Likely Under IPL Code of Conduct

Gill’s actions likely breached Article 2.8 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct, which penalises “dissent at an umpire’s decision.” Specific violations include:

(a) “Excessive, obvious disappointment” with decisions.

(h) “Prolonged argument” with officials.

Possible Penalties:

Level 1 Offense: Up to 50% match fee fine + 2 demerit points.

Level 2 Offense: 1–2 suspension points + 3–4 demerit points.

With Gill already accumulating demerit points this season, a suspension could sideline him for GT’s critical May 6 match against the Mumbai Indians.

Despite the drama, GT’s 224/6—powered by Gill, Jos Buttler (64), and Sai Sudharsan (48)—proved insurmountable for SRH (186/6). Prasidh Krishna’s 2/19 stifled Hyderabad’s chase, but Ishant Sharma’s injury during the final over added to GT’s concerns.

ALSO READ: Hardik Pandya braved seven stitches to be match-ready against Rajasthan Royals

What’s Next?

The IPL’s disciplinary committee will review the incidents ahead of GT’s next fixture. With playoffs looming, the Titans risk losing their captain at a pivotal moment, a gamble that could redefine their campaign.