The TATA IPL 2025 season has seen its fair share of controversies, but few players have been as frequently in the spotlight for disciplinary reasons as Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) spinner Digvesh Rathi. Known for his aggressive on-field demeanor and his now-infamous “notebook celebration,” Rathi’s repeated breaches of the IPL Code of Conduct culminated in a one-match suspension and multiple fines. This article delves into who Digvesh Rathi is, his rise in Indian cricket, and the incidents that led to his frequent penalization during IPL 2025.
Who is Digvesh Rathi ?
Digvesh Rathi is a left-arm spinner who emerged as a vital member of the Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025. At 25 years old, Rathi built a reputation as a competitive, high-energy bowler capable of turning matches with both his skill and intensity. His performances in domestic cricket earned him an IPL contract, where he quickly became known not just for his bowling but also for his flamboyant wicket celebrations.
Rathi’s signature move—the “notebook celebration,” where he mimics writing down a batter’s name and striking it off—became his trademark. While it entertained fans and added drama to the IPL, it also brought him under the scanner for breaching the league’s code of conduct.
The Notebook Celebration: From Signature Move to Controversy
Rathi’s notebook celebration first gained attention in a high-scoring encounter against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), where he dismissed Sunil Narine and marked the wicket with his signature gesture. The celebration, though initially tolerated, began to draw criticism for its perceived provocation, especially when performed in close proximity to dismissed batters.
The controversy escalated when Rathi continued the celebration in subsequent matches, including against Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) initially showed some leniency, treating the act as part of the game’s entertainment. However, as Rathi persisted with the gesture—despite warnings and fines—and began to accompany it with pointed send-offs, the league’s authorities decided to act more firmly.
Timeline of Offences and Penalties
First Offence: April 1, 2025 – Against Punjab Kings
Rathi’s first brush with the IPL Code of Conduct came after a match against Punjab Kings, where his notebook celebration was deemed provocative. He received one demerit point for a Level 1 offence under Article 2.5 (conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game).
Second Offence: April 4, 2025 – Against Mumbai Indians
Just days later, Rathi repeated his celebration after dismissing Naman Dhir of Mumbai Indians. This time, the BCCI imposed a stiffer penalty: a 50% match fee fine and two demerit points, bringing his tally to three demerit points. The league’s statement made it clear that repeated breaches would not be tolerated.
Third Offence: May 19, 2025 – Against Sunrisers Hyderabad
The most serious incident occurred during LSG’s match against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Ekana Stadium. After dismissing SRH opener Abhishek Sharma, who was in the midst of a blistering knock, Rathi once again performed the notebook celebration, this time adding a fiery send-off. Sharma, visibly angered, charged at Rathi, leading to a heated on-field altercation that required intervention from umpires and teammates.
This incident resulted in Rathi being fined 50% of his match fees and handed two additional demerit points, bringing his season total to five. According to IPL rules, accumulating five demerit points triggers an automatic one-match suspension. As a result, Rathi was suspended for LSG’s next match against Gujarat Titans.
The BCCI’s Rationale and Response
The BCCI’s disciplinary actions against Rathi were grounded in maintaining the IPL’s standards of sportsmanship and on-field conduct. While celebrations are part of cricket’s evolving culture, the league draws a line at actions that can be perceived as disrespectful or provocative towards opponents.
Rathi’s repeated notebook celebrations, especially when performed directly in front of dismissed batters and coupled with aggressive send-offs, were deemed to breach the spirit of the game. The escalation to a heated altercation with Abhishek Sharma further underscored the need for firm action to prevent such incidents from becoming commonplace.
The BCCI’s statement emphasized that for Level 1 breaches, the Match Referee’s decision is final and binding. Rathi’s penalties included fines, demerit points, and ultimately, a one-match suspension. Abhishek Sharma was also fined for his role in the altercation, though his penalty was less severe as it was his first offence.
Impact on LSG and the IPL
Rathi’s suspension was a setback for Lucknow Super Giants, who had relied on his bowling in crucial matches. His absence forced the team to adjust their bowling combination for the important clash against Gujarat Titans. The incidents also sparked broader discussions about the balance between player expression and sportsmanship in the IPL.
Off the field, Rathi’s actions divided opinion. Some fans appreciated his passion and showmanship, while others felt his celebrations crossed the line into unsportsmanlike behavior. The episode highlighted the challenges the IPL faces as it seeks to balance entertainment with respect for the game’s traditions.
Aftermath and Reconciliation
Following the heated match, both Rathi and Sharma reportedly spoke and resolved their differences. Abhishek Sharma stated in a post-match interview that the matter was settled and there were no lingering issues. The BCCI’s intervention, including mediation by officials, helped ensure that the focus returned to cricket rather than controversy.
Conclusion
Digvesh Rathi’s frequent penalization during IPL 2025 was the result of repeated breaches of the league’s Code of Conduct, primarily due to his provocative notebook celebration and aggressive send-offs. While his on-field energy and unique style brought him attention and fans, it also led to disciplinary action when it crossed into unsportsmanlike territory. The BCCI’s firm response underscores the importance of maintaining respect and decorum in the IPL, even as the league embraces new forms of player expression.
Rathi’s story is a reminder that in modern cricket, passion and personality must be balanced with responsibility and sportsmanship. As he serves his suspension and reflects on the season, both Rathi and the league will look to strike that balance in the matches to come.
