It was a shocking and unbecoming incident in the Indian Premier League (IPL) when Delhi Capitals’ off-spinner Kuldeep Yadav slapped Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batter Rinku Singh on camera immediately after their last match.
Heated Exchange Between Kuldeep and Rinku
The incident reportedly originated from a disagreement on the field between the two players. As tempers flared during the match, fellow players quickly intervened to calm things down and prevent further escalation. But the issue did not end there. After the match, when players from both teams congregated in the middle of the field, Kuldeep Yadav suddenly slapped Rinku Singh, much to the surprise of both fans and colleagues.
Viral Video Sparks Outrage
Video of the slap soon went viral on all social media, triggering severe criticism towards Kuldeep Yadav. Supporters and sports experts criticized the violence, labeling it utterly uncalled for in the context of professional sports. Many users insisted on the IPL officials taking stringent measures, including potential suspension or a fine, for Kuldeep.
KKR Clinch 14-Run Win Over Delhi Capitals
Though the off-field drama took place, the game itself was won by Kolkata Knight Riders over Delhi Capitals by 14 runs. Rinku Singh was the key to the victory, which could have contributed further to the subliminal tension between the two cricketers.
A Look Back: Same Incident in 2008
Aggressive on-field behavior isn’t new to the IPL. Back in the inaugural 2008 season, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh made headlines for slapping his own teammate, Sreesanth—an incident that still resurfaces whenever similar controversies emerge.
Final Thoughts
This latest incident of confrontation between Kuldeep Yadav and Rinku Singh has again brought the issue of player discipline and professionalism in the IPL into question. While rivalry is high in such high-stakes tournaments, such behavior can mar the game’s spirit. Cricket enthusiasts and experts alike are keeping a close eye on how the IPL governing body and match officials will address this unexpected incident, which has drawn widespread backlash and raised serious questions about player conduct and on-field discipline.
