In cricket, celebrating a wicket is normal - but when it crosses into theatrics, it often draws criticism. That's exactly what's happening with Lucknow Super Giants' young pacer Digvesh Rathi in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
While his bowling has shown promise, it's his repeated bizarre celebrations that are grabbing headlines - and not for the right reasons.
Digvesh Rathi's celebration sparks controversy, 'again'
Digvesh Rathi, who was bought by LSG at his base price of Rs 30 lakh, has now gained popularity for his over-the-top celebrations after taking wickets.
In his debut match against Punjab Kings, after dismissing a batsman, he walked up and made a gesture as if he were cutting a slip or cheque with scissors. IPL management didn't take it lightly - he was fined 25% of his match fee, which cost him about Rs 1.87 lakh.
However, the fine did not deter him. In LSG's next game against Mumbai Indians, Rathi repeated a similarly strange gesture after taking a wicket. This time, the IPL responded more firmly, deducting 50% of his match fee - around Rs 3.75 lakh. Many believed this would be the wake-up call he needed.
But once again, in LSG's most recent clash in IPL 2025 against Kolkata Knight Riders on Tuesday (April 8), Rathi went back to his controversial act.
After dismissing Sunil Narine, he sat down on the pitch and repeated the same 'cutting slip' gesture, sparking outrage among fans and cricket experts alike.
Though flamboyant celebrations are part of modern cricket, Rathi's antics might be viewed as disrespectful and unsportsmanlike, especially considering he's at the start of his professional journey. While his intent may be to stand out, there might be fans who believe he's doing it for wrong reasons.
Instant impact! 💥👍🏻#DigveshRathi comes into the attack and gets the wicket of his idol, #SunilNarine! 🙌🏻
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 8, 2025
Watch the LIVE action ➡ https://t.co/RsBcA7HaAO #IPLonJioStar 👉 #KKRvLSG | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 2, Star Sports 2 Hindi & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/AkNVKFeQtw
POV: Finally you met your idol 💜😄 pic.twitter.com/ynKB3VuVgi
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) April 6, 2025
All eyes are now on the IPL officials - will they impose another fine, or take a stricter action this time?
