Cheating Team in IPL? These Popular Franchises Have Never Won the Fair Play Award

When we talk about IPL, we usually think about huge sixes, last-over thrillers, and superstar players. But there’s one award that doesn’t get as much attention — the Fair Play Award. It’s not about winning matches. It’s about how respectfully and cleanly you play the game.

Interestingly, two of the biggest and most popular IPL teams — Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) — have never won this award.

Let’s break it down and understand what this really means.

So, What Is the Fair Play Award in IPL?

Every IPL season, the umpires rate teams after each match based on how well they behave on the field. Teams earn points for:

• Respecting the other team

• Following the rules

• Being polite to the umpires

• Showing good sportsmanship

At the end of the season, the team with the highest points gets the Fair Play Award.

It’s basically a prize for being a well-behaved, respectful cricket team.

The Surprising Part – RCB and KKR Have Never Won It

This might shock many fans: RCB and KKR have played in the IPL since the beginning but have never received this award even once.

Why RCB?

RCB has always been full of energy — from Virat Kohli’s intense celebrations to big names like AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis. While their passion is great for entertainment, it may sometimes come across as too aggressive on the field, which could cost them Fair Play points.

What About KKR?

KKR had Gautam Gambhir as captain for many seasons — known for his serious and fiery attitude. Even today, KKR plays with a lot of intensity. But when emotions run high, players can cross the line without realizing it.

Does This Mean They Cheat?

No, not at all.
Not winning the Fair Play Award doesn’t mean a team cheats. It just means they don’t always match the standards of polite and respectful behavior set by the umpires.

Sometimes loud appeals, arguments with officials, or over-the-top reactions can bring the scores down — even if it’s within the rules.

Which Teams Usually Win This Award?

Teams like:

• Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

• Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)

• Rajasthan Royals (RR)

...have done well in this category. Their captains, especially MS Dhoni, are known for their calm behavior and respectful attitude on the field — which helps their teams earn high scores from umpires.

Will RCB or KKR Ever Win It?

They absolutely can!
Every new IPL season is a fresh start. If they play with a bit more calm and discipline, they might finally break their streak and win the Fair Play Award too.

Final Thoughts

RCB and KKR are exciting teams that fans love to watch. But maybe it’s time they also focused on winning hearts — not just games. The Fair Play Award is a reminder that cricket is not only about power, but also about playing with class and respect.

FAQs

Q. Which teams have never won the Fair Play Award in IPL?
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have never won it as of IPL 2025.

Q. Does that mean they play unfair cricket?
No. It just means their on-field behavior hasn’t always matched the high standards needed for the Fair Play points.

Q. Which Team has won the most Fair Play Award?
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have won it the most times, thanks to their cool and respectful approach under MS Dhoni.

Q. Can RCB or KKR win this award in the future?
Yes! With a more balanced approach, any team can win the Fair Play Award in future IPL seasons.