IPL 2025: Nehra becomes first coach to get demerit point in IPL

In a sensational conclusion to the rain-hit IPL 2025 between the Mumbai Indians and the Gujarat Titans, GT head coach Ashish Nehra was in the limelight—but for the wrong reasons. The ex-India pacer was clearly agitated in the last few minutes of the match, apparently appealing to umpires to get play going after a long rain stoppage.

Nehra was fined 25% of his match fee and given one demerit point for violating Article 2.20 of the IPL Code of Conduct, relating to "conduct that is against the spirit of the game," reports say. The IPL itself did not cite the nature of the offense, only the breach and resulting punishments.

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This is the first time ever in IPL history that a coach has been given a demerit point for violating the code of conduct of the league. Though there have been disciplinary actions against several players over the years, this action indicates that coaches are also now responsible for on-field conduct.

The incident provides yet another level of tension to what has been an already closely fought IPL season, with playoff races intensifying and tempers fraying as teams battle for qualification.

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Match Summary: GT Win Last-Ball Thriller through DLS

In IPL 2025 Match 56, Gujarat Titans (GT) narrowly defeated Mumbai Indians (MI) by 3 wickets, winning under the DLS method after rain interrupted the game. MI posted a competitive total of 155/8 in 20 overs, with Will Jacks top-scoring with 53 off 35 balls, supported by Suryakumar Yadav’s 35 and Corbin Bosch’s 27. Despite some good batting contributions, the Gujarat bowlers, led by Sai Kishore (2/34), kept the MI batting in check. However, rain interrupted play, and the DLS adjustment set Gujarat a target of 148 runs in 19 overs, putting extra pressure on the chasing team.

Gujarat Titans responded with a calculated chase, led by Shubman Gill’s 43 off 46 balls and Jos Buttler’s 30 off 27. The innings gained momentum thanks to Sherfane Rutherford’s explosive 28 off 15 balls. Despite efforts from MI bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah (2/19) and Trent Boult (2/22), the rain-adjusted target made it more manageable for Gujarat. They successfully held their nerve and crossed the line on the final delivery, clinching a thrilling victory by 3 wickets under the DLS method.