Royal Challengers Bengaluru batter Tim David has been docked 30 percent of match fees and given two demerit points for a breach of the IPL Code of Conduct during the clash against the Mumbai Indians in Raipur on Sunday, May 10, after RCB secured a tight win.
The Australian power-hitter was found guilty under Article 2.6 of the IPL Code of Conduct, which covers "showing an offensive gesture" during a match. The gesture, reportedly made after the thrilling result against the Mumbai Indians, spread quickly across social media platforms and triggered wide discussion among supporters.
The IPL is expected to release a formal statement on the penalties and specific findings. Attention on the incident increased as clips circulated online, with several
fans debating the severity of the action and the punishment imposed on Tim David for the post-match gesture.
RCB head coach Andy Flower also faced sanctions for a separate incident. Flower was fined 15 percent of match fees for the "use of an audible obscenity during a match", a breach of Article 2.3 of the IPL Code of Conduct. This episode took place in the 17th over of RCB's innings, when Flower engaged in a heated exchange with the fourth umpire near the boundary.
All were busy with Virat Kohli’s celebration, see how Tim David celebrated 😂🔥 pic.twitter.com/0ApBaRNKNJ
- Middle Stump Cricket (@MiddleCricket) May 11, 2026
'I Would Still Back Punjab'- Sunil Gavaskar Picks His Finalists
Following Royal Challengers Bengaluru's recent win and the elimination of Mumbai Indians, former India great Sunil Gavaskar has backed Punjab Kings and RCB to meet in the final of the Indian Premier League 2026 season.
"I would still back Punjab Kings," Gavaskar said, pointing out that brief setbacks can sometimes benefit a team by helping them regroup and stay grounded. He contrasted this with Delhi Capitals, noting that they have let slip matches they were in a strong position to win, a pattern that has hurt their campaign. "Punjab will know how important this stage of the tournament is. I still see Punjab Kings and RCB as my finalists," he added.
With Mumbai now out of the playoff race, Gavaskar also shared his thoughts on the franchise's approach for the remainder of the season. He suggested that it could be an ideal time to shift focus toward the future by giving younger players more opportunities.
"In T20 cricket, ups and downs are bound to happen," he said, emphasising that a proper assessment can be done after the season concludes. For now, he believes the senior players have done their part, and the remaining matches offer a chance to test the bench strength. "It may be the right opportunity to give younger players a chance. to see how they handle pressure," Gavaskar explained.
