Major controversies that rocked Indian Premier League 2025

Cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) is often mired with many controversies. IPL 2025 is also no different. Let's have a look at some of the controversies in the ongoing edition of IPL...

Franchise-Association Conflicts

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) threatened to abandon Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi Stadium after accusing the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) of intimidation and coercion over complimentary ticket demands. 

SRH’s management cited 'unprofessional threats' from HCA officials, including attempts to lock stadium boxes on match days. The dispute mirrors broader tensions between IPL teams and local cricket bodies over stadium control.

On-Field Controversies

Mumbai Indians’ captain Hardik Pandya faced backlash for retiring out Tilak Varma during a high-pressure chase, a move labeled 'tactically rash' by former players. 

LSG’s Digvesh Rathi received fines and demerit points for aggressive send-offs, repeating his provocative celebrations despite prior sanctions. 

Additionally, a viral clip of Rohit Sharma’s cryptic remark about 'not needing to do anything' reignited speculation about internal MI tensions.

Pitch Preparation Disputes

KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane and LSG mentor Zaheer Khan openly criticized curators for unfavorable pitch conditions, with Rahane seeking spin-friendly surfaces at Eden Gardens and Zaheer sarcastically suggesting Punjab’s curator designed Lucknow’s track . 

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The BCCI responded firmly, reiterating that franchises cannot influence pitch preparation and emphasizing adherence to balanced surface guidelines.

Racial Remarks & Social Media Backlash

Harbhajan Singh sparked outrage during an IPL 2025 commentary session by comparing Jofra Archer’s expensive bowling figures to London’s 'kaali taxi' meters. The racially charged analogy led to widespread demands for his suspension from the commentary panel. 

Meanwhile, a viral video of fans physically fighting during the RR-KKR match in Guwahati highlighted escalating tensions among supporters.

Team Management and Performance Struggles

CSK and KKR faced parallel challenges with aging stars: MS Dhoni’s reduced running capacity limited his batting impact, while Andre Russell’s inconsistent fitness affected his bowling contributions .

LSG captain Rishabh Pant’s poor form (averaging 12.75 in four matches) drew visible frustration from owner Sanjiv Goenka, compounding the team’s on-field struggles.