Why These Players Were Banned from the IPL: The Indian Premier League (IPL), one of the world’s most-watched cricket tournaments, is not immune to controversy. Over the years, several players have faced bans for offenses ranging from spot-fixing to breaches of protocol. These incidents have highlighted the league’s strict stance on integrity and discipline.
Below is a detailed list of notable players who have been banned from the IPL and the reasons behind their suspensions.
Spot-Fixing Scandals
S. Sreesanth (Rajasthan Royals)
In 2013, Indian fast bowler S. Sreesanth was arrested during IPL 6 for alleged involvement in spot-fixing. He was accused of agreeing to concede 14 runs in an over for a bribe. The BCCI imposed a life ban, which was later reduced to a seven-year suspension. He was eventually acquitted in court but served the full term.
Ankeet Chavan (Rajasthan Royals)
Also implicated in the 2013 spot-fixing scandal, Chavan received a life ban from the BCCI. Although later acquitted by a Delhi court, his cricketing career took a major hit. The ban was lifted in 2021.
Ajit Chandila (Rajasthan Royals)
Chandila was another Rajasthan Royals player caught in the 2013 fixing scandal. He was handed a life ban by the BCCI, later commuted to a seven-year suspension ending in 2023.
TP Sudhindra (Deccan Chargers)
In 2012, Sudhindra was banned for life after a sting operation revealed his involvement in spot-fixing during a domestic game. He admitted guilt, and the BCCI acted swiftly to impose the ban.
Shalabh Srivastava (Kings XI Punjab)
Srivastava was banned for five years in 2012 after a sting operation revealed his willingness to fix matches for money. He was one of several domestic cricketers implicated.
Mohnish Mishra (Pune Warriors India)
Mishra faced a one-year ban in 2012 after being caught on camera discussing illegal payments and under-the-table deals.
Amit Yadav (Kings XI Punjab)
Yadav was banned for one year in 2012 following the same sting operation that exposed several players’ involvement in corrupt practices.
Abhinav Bali
Though not associated with any IPL team at the time, Bali was banned for a year in 2012 after admitting to spot-fixing in a previous domestic season.
Other Violations
Siddharth Trivedi (Rajasthan Royals)
Trivedi was banned for one year in 2013 for failing to report approaches from bookies, violating the BCCI’s anti-corruption code.
Pravin Tambe (Kolkata Knight Riders)
In 2020, veteran leg-spinner Tambe was disqualified from participating in the IPL after he took part in the T10 League in the UAE without obtaining the required permissions from the BCCI.
Harry Brook (Delhi Capitals)
Brook withdrew from IPL 2025 for the second consecutive year to prioritize his national commitments with England. As per IPL regulations, this could lead to a two-year suspension from the league.
Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans)
In 2025, South African pacer Rabada tested positive for a recreational drug during the SA20 league, resulting in a provisional suspension and subsequent withdrawal from the IPL. He has since completed a rehabilitation program and is cleared to return to cricket.
Conclusion
While the IPL continues to thrive as a premier cricket league, these incidents underscore the importance of maintaining the integrity of the sport. The BCCI has consistently taken a firm stance against corruption and violations of conduct, reinforcing its zero-tolerance policy and commitment to fair play.