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Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) spinner Digvesh Singh Rathi has landed himself in hot water after being fined for repeating his now-infamous ‘notebook’ celebration during LSG’s 12-run win over Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2025. The disciplinary action, which comes just days after an earlier fine, marks one of the most serious player conduct crackdowns of the ongoing IPL edition.
Digvesh Rathi’s gesture sparks disciplinary action
Rathi’s celebration—a mimicry of writing in a notebook after taking a wicket—was first seen during LSG’s match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 1. After dismissing PBKS opener Priyansh Arya, a former Delhi Premier League teammate, Rathi performed the gesture, drawing criticism for its perceived provocation. The act earned him a 25% match fee fine and a Level 1 offence under Article 2.5 of the IPL Code of Conduct, which covers actions that could provoke an aggressive response from a batter.
Despite warnings from officials and team management, Rathi repeated the celebration during LSG’s clash with MI, this time after dismissing Naman Dhir, who had been in explosive form with a quick 46 off 24 balls. Although Rathi avoided physical confrontation, the BCCI deemed the act a repeated breach, resulting in a 50% fine and two additional demerit points.
Three demerit points for Digvesh Rathi
This is now Rathi’s second Level 1 offence in five days, pushing his total to three demerit points—one from the PBKS match and two from the MI clash. According to IPL regulations, a player who accumulates four demerit points in a season faces an automatic one-match suspension. Rathi is now one step away from that threshold, and any further violations could see him sidelined.
In a statement, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) underscored the seriousness of the issue: “This was his second Level 1 offence this season, leading to additional demerit points. Repeated violations of the Code of Conduct will result in stronger penalties, including match bans.”
Also READ: IPL 2025 – Who is Digvesh Rathi? The LSG bowler who made headlines with his unique ‘notebook’ celebration
LSG under pressure to rein in rising star
While Rathi has impressed with his bowling so far this season, his on-field behaviour is beginning to overshadow his performances. With LSG in a tight race for playoff contention, the franchise may be forced to intervene more strongly to prevent losing a key player to suspension.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on whether Rathi tempers his celebrations – or risks further punishment that could impact both his season and his team’s fortunes.
