Mumbai: Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar did not hold back in his criticism of Jasprit Bumrah, calling a crucial no-ball during the IPL 2026 clash against Lucknow Super Giants “unacceptable”.
The incident occurred in the 14th over of LSG’s innings when Bumrah appeared to have dismissed Himmat Singh, who edged the ball to wicketkeeper Ryan Rickelton. However, celebrations were cut short as the siren sounded, with the umpire signalling a no-ball for overstepping.
Gavaskar’s sharp reaction
Reacting on commentary, Gavaskar expressed strong disapproval of the error, especially given Bumrah’s stature and experience.
“This is not acceptable. You are a professional cricketer. Wides, I understand. But not no-balls.”
His remarks underline the high standards expected from elite bowlers in high-pressure T20 matches, where even a marginal error can shift momentum dramatically.
Match turns into a run-fest
Despite the setback, Mumbai Indians produced a dominant batting performance to chase down a massive target set by LSG in the Indian Premier League.
Openers Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton laid the foundation with a stunning 143-run partnership.
- Rohit Sharma scored a fluent 84 off 44 balls
- Rickelton hammered 83 off just 32 deliveries
Mumbai Indians chased down 228 in just 18.4 overs, securing a six-wicket win and registering their third victory of the season.
LSG show fight but fall short
Earlier, LSG posted a strong total of 228/5, thanks largely to a blistering knock from Nicholas Pooran, who smashed 63 off just 21 balls — his first half-century of the season.
Mitchell Marsh added 44 at the top, while Aiden Markram (31*) and Himmat Singh (40*) provided a late flourish.
However, captain Rishabh Pant endured another disappointing outing, scoring just 15 as his lean run with the bat continued.
Points table pressure builds
The defeat leaves LSG at the bottom of the standings with just four points from nine matches, while Mumbai Indians moved to six points after their third win in ten games.
While Bumrah’s no-ball did not ultimately cost Mumbai the match, Gavaskar’s criticism highlights a broader point — even the best players are expected to maintain discipline in crucial moments.
In a tournament as competitive as the IPL, such fine margins often separate victory from defeat — and as Gavaskar made clear, there is little room for basic errors at the highest level.
