Harmanjot Khabra handed two-match ban, fined for violent conduct

The right-back will miss Kerala Blasters' last two league matches.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) Disciplinary Committee sentenced Kerala Blasters FC's Harmanjot Singh Khabra to a two-match suspension and a fine of INR 1.5 Lacs.

Khabra was found guilty of 'hitting an opponent when not challenging for the ball' after being charged with 'violent conduct' in an Indian Super League (ISL) match against Hyderabad FC last month.

[KH_ADWORDS type="4" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS]

Upon investigating video footage of the incident, the AIFF body show caused the player. In his written response, Khabra regretted "making an error in sporting judgment and acting in a manner which is not in line with the laws of the game and it was never his intention to hurt Sahil Tavora."

The Committee called upon for an additional hearing and passed their verdict on Tuesday, March 1. Harmanjot Khabra will remain suspended for Kerala Blasters FC's last two ISL league-stage matches this season against Mumbai City FC (March 2) and FC Goa (March 6).

The 33-year-old will be eligible for selection next should Kerala Blasters FC reach the Semi-finals.

[KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News |ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS]

Incident

The incident occurred during the Kerala Blasters vs Hyderabad FC match at the Athletic Stadium on February 23 (Wednesday). Khabra, frustrated by the scoreline, had an off-the-ball incident with Sahil Tanvora in the final moments of the game. The right-back did play Kerala Blasters' next match against Chennaiyin FC, which they won. He will, however, miss the Blasters' final two league matches against Mumbai City FC and FC Goa.

With Ivan Vukomanovic's men chasing a playoff spot, Harmanjot Khabra's absence will be a big miss for them. Sandeep Singh is likely to man the right flank in his absence.

Kerala Blasters in ISL 2021-22

The Blasters will face defending champions Mumbai City FC in a virtual quarter-final clash for a place in final four later today. A defeat could end their hopes of making the playoffs. Kerala are currently fifth with 30 points from 18 matches, a point behind Mumbai who have played the same number of games.

For more football updates, follow Khel Now on Twitter, Instagram and join our community on Telegram.