IPL Top 5 Biggest Controversies in IPL History That Shocked the Cricket World

IPL Top 5 Biggest Controversies in IPL History That Shocked the Cricket World

Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to kick off on March 22, featuring a thrilling opening match between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the legendary Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

The Indian Premier League has become more than just a cricketing event; it is a global sports and entertainment phenomenon. However, alongside its staggering success and popularity, IPL has also witnessed numerous controversies that have shaken the cricketing world. From heated on-field altercations to high-profile corruption scandals, the IPL has seen it all. Despite these setbacks, the tournament continues to grow, drawing millions of fans and breaking broadcasting records every season.

Table of Contents

1. Harbhajan Singh Slapping S Sreesanth – IPL 2008
2. Shah Rukh Khan’s Wankhede Stadium Ban – IPL 2012
3. Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir’s Heated Clash – IPL 2013 & 2023
4. The 2013 Spot-Fixing Scandal – A Dark Chapter in IPL
5. MS Dhoni’s Rare Outburst Against Umpires – IPL 2019

Let’s take a deep dive into the biggest IPL controversies that shocked cricket lovers worldwide.

1. Harbhajan Singh Slapping S Sreesanth – IPL 2008

The first major controversy in IPL history occurred during its inaugural season in 2008, when Mumbai Indians’ (MI) captain Harbhajan Singh slapped Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) pacer S Sreesanth after a match in Mohali on April 25.

What Happened?

Punjab had convincingly defeated Mumbai by 66 runs. After the match, Sreesanth was seen crying on the field, and later, reports revealed that Harbhajan had slapped him in frustration after a heated exchange. The incident led to Harbhajan being banned for the remainder of the IPL season and suspended for five ODI matches.

Over time, both players moved past the controversy, with Sreesanth later clarifying that he was hurt emotionally rather than physically. Interestingly, both players were part of India’s 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup-winning squads.

2. Shah Rukh Khan’s Wankhede Stadium Ban – IPL 2012

What Happened?

Bollywood superstar and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) owner Shah Rukh Khan was banned from Wankhede Stadium for five years following an altercation with security personnel on May 16, 2012.

After KKR’s victory against Mumbai Indians, Shah Rukh was involved in a heated argument with Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) officials and security staff. The MCA accused him of misbehavior and imposed a long-term ban. However, SRK defended himself, claiming that the security guards mistreated children, including his daughter, which led to his reaction.

Aftermath

Though a police complaint was filed, it was a non-cognizable offense, so he wasn’t arrested. In 2015, the ban was lifted, allowing him to return to Wankhede.

3. Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir’s Heated Clash – IPL 2013 & 2023

First Clash – IPL 2013

During IPL 2013, RCB’s Virat Kohli and KKR captain Gautam Gambhir had a furious exchange on the field after Kohli got dismissed. The two Delhi-born cricketers, known for their aggressive approach, got into an intense face-off before being separated by teammates.

Second Clash – IPL 2023

A decade later, the rivalry resurfaced when RCB clashed with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). After RCB’s victory, Kohli had an animated celebration, which led to a post-match altercation with Gambhir (then LSG mentor).

Both players were fined 100% of their match fees, and the incident went viral on social media. However, with Gambhir now serving as India’s head coach, the two seem to have moved past their differences, often sharing laughs about their passionate on-field battles.

4. The 2013 Spot-Fixing Scandal – A Dark Chapter in IPL

What Happened?

One of IPL’s biggest setbacks came in 2013, when a massive spot-fixing scandal erupted. Three Rajasthan Royals (RR) players – Sreesanth, Ajit Chandila, and Ankeet Chavan – were arrested for alleged spot-fixing.

The Scandal Unfolds

• Bookie Sunil Bhatia was arrested, triggering an extensive investigation.
• Players used specific gestures, like towel signals, to indicate fixed deliveries.
• CSK team principal Gurunath Meiyappan and RR co-owner Raj Kundra were found involved in illegal betting.
• Bollywood actor Vindu Dara Singh was also arrested for betting links.
• Then BCCI President N. Srinivasan was forced to step down.

Aftermath

The RM Lodha Committee suspended Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) for two years (2015-2017). While many accused individuals were later acquitted, this scandal prompted stricter anti-corruption measures in IPL.

5. MS Dhoni’s Rare Outburst Against Umpires – IPL 2019

What Happened?

MS Dhoni, known for his calm and composed demeanor, had a rare moment of anger during a match between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) in 2019.

The Controversial Moment

• CSK needed 8 runs off 3 balls while chasing 152.
• Ben Stokes bowled a high full toss, initially called a no-ball by the umpire.
• However, the decision was overturned, causing confusion.
• An enraged Dhoni stormed onto the field, confronting the umpires.

Despite the controversy, CSK won the match, but Dhoni was fined 50% of his match fee for breaching IPL’s code of conduct. Looking back, Dhoni admitted it was a mistake, emphasizing that emotions can sometimes get the best of even the most composed players.

Final Thoughts

While the IPL has had its share of controversies, its popularity remains unmatched. Fans continue to embrace the league, making it the most-watched T20 cricket tournament globally. As IPL 2025 approaches, we can expect another season filled with thrilling matches, record-breaking performances, and of course, a fair share of drama!