IPL 2021: MS Dhoni could get banned after CSK's clash against PBKS if....

MS Dhoni is a legendary former Indian skipper who is also the longest-reigning skipper in the Indian Premier League for Chennai Super Kings, having helped the side win three titles to date. CSK is off to a troubled start to IPL 2021, losing the opening game to Delhi Capitals.

Former Indian skipper continues to be one of the biggest attraction in the Indian Premier League. He is currently featuring in IPL 2021, as he is once again leading Chennai Super Kings.

However, CSK is off to a troubled start to IPL 2021, losing the opening game to Delhi Capitals. To add insult to the injury, Dhoni was fined ₹12 lakh for his side maintaining a slow over-rate.

Meanwhile, Dhoni will have to be extra careful in CSK's next game against Punjab Kings on Friday. A repeat of the offence could lead him to be fined a more significant amount this term, besides possibly facing a two-game ban.

The IPL Playing Conditions have been updated this year, which indicates that the minimum over-rate has to be strictly adhered to, which means it should not take more than an hour and 30 minutes for a side to bowl the 20 overs. While a first offence would lead to a ₹12 lakh fine, a repetition of the same within two games could lead to a ban of two to four games, based on the verdict provided by the match referee.

According to clause 12.7.3 of the IPL Playing Conditions, allowance can be given to the below causes while calculating the over-rate:
- The time lost as a result of treatment given to a player by authorized medical personnel on the field of play.
- The time lost as a result of a player being required to leave the field as a result of a serious injury.
- The time taken for all third umpire referrals, consultations and any umpire or player reviews.
- The time lost as a result of time-wasting by the batting side.
- The time lost due to all other circumstances that are beyond the control of the fielding side.