Hyderabad: Gujarat Titans’ fast bowler Ishant Sharma has been slapped a fine amounting to 25 per cent of his match fee and given one demerit point for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct during their encounter against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday night.

"Ishant Sharma admitted to the Level 1 offence under Article 2.2 and accepted the Match Referee's sanction," read an official IPL release.

"For Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct, the Match Referee's decision is final and binding," the statement further said.

According to the IPL Code of Conduct, Article 2.2 deals with "abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during a match”.

The seasoned pacer endured a difficult outing against Hyderabad, conceding 53 runs in his four overs without taking a wicket. So far in the tournament, Ishant has leaked 107 runs across three matches and has managed to pick up just one wicket.

What exactly is Level 1 offence under Article 2.2 

Level 1 offences under Article 2.2 refer to conduct that falls outside the realm of standard cricketing actions—such as deliberately or recklessly hitting or kicking the stumps—or any act, whether intentional, careless or accidental that causes damage to property including advertising boards, boundary ropes, dressing room fittings, windows or mirrors. For example, a player may be found guilty of this offence if they swing their bat in frustration and end up damaging an advertising hoarding.

(With PTI inputs)