Former England captain Michael Vaughan criticized the IPL after Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) took a strategic timeout despite requiring only two runs from 24 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Known for his sharp social media presence, Vaughan couldn’t help but poke fun at what appeared to be an unnecessary pause in the game on March 27 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
Michael Vaughan makes fun of IPL rules
Vaughan pointed out that LSG took a strategic timeout despite needing only 2 runs off 24 balls, which made no sense. They had practically won the game and could have easily scored the remaining runs to celebrate the victory with the entire team.
Vaughan wrote in ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), “Only in the IPL can you have a strategic time out with 2 needed off 24 balls with 5 wickets remaining. #India.”
Only in the IPL can you have a strategic time out with 2 needed off 24 balls with 5 wkts remaining ..
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) March 27, 2025#India
What is the rule of Strategic timeout?
The strategic timeout, typically used for tactical discussions or disrupting the opposition’s rhythm, seemed unnecessary given the match scenario. With LSG on the verge of an easy win, fans and experts were left baffled by the decision, making it an ideal moment for Vaughan’s signature sarcasm. According to IPL rules, each team is allowed one three-minute strategic timeout per innings—bowling teams can take it between overs 6-9, while batting teams have the option between overs 13-16. If a batting side hasn’t used its timeout by the 16th over, it is automatically enforced after that.
This could have also been done to extend the broadcast time, as an early match finish might result in a loss of revenue and advertisement slots. During the strategic timeout, broadcasters get the opportunity to show maximum ads.
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