• Many fans reckoned the BCCI's pattern of punishing bowlers more harshly reflects a systemic bias.

  • Digvesh Rathi has been handed a one-match suspension and fined 50% of his match fee for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct.

BCCI faces backlash as Digvesh Rathi gets one-match ban while Abhishek Sharma escapes with fine in IPL 2025
Fans call out BCCI after Digvesh Rathi ban in IPL 2025 (Image Source: X)

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The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has once again become the center of a controversy—not for a thrilling finish or a record-breaking performance—but for what many fans believe is an example of the BCCI’s inconsistent disciplinary actions. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) spinner Digvesh Rathi has been handed a one-match suspension and fined 50% of his match fee for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct, while Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) batter Abhishek Sharma, involved in the same altercation, walked away with a light 25% fine.

This unequal punishment has sparked a storm on social media, with fans slamming the BCCI for what they say is a familiar pattern of harshness towards bowlers and leniency for batters.

Digvesh Rathi faces ban after indulging in a verbal spat with Abhishek Sharma

The incident unfolded during LSG’s home game against SRH, when Rathi dismissed Abhishek in the eighth over of the second innings. As Sharma walked back, Rathi gave him a theatrical send-off, waving him goodbye and writing an imaginary note in his “notebook” — a gesture that seemed to mock the batter. A brief but intense exchange of words followed, forcing umpire Michael Gough to step in and separate the two players.

This was Rathi’s third offence of the season, earning him a fifth demerit point under Article 2.5 of the IPL Code of Conduct — the trigger point for an automatic one-match suspension. As a result, the spinner will miss LSG’s next match against Gujarat Titans. Abhishek, on the other hand, was fined a quarter of his match fee and faces no suspension.

Also WATCH: IPL 2025 – Digvesh Rathi and Abhishek Sharma engage in a fiery exchange during LSG vs SRH match

Fans slam BCCI for double standards

The decision didn’t sit well with cricket followers. Several fans were quick to point out that Rathi’s suspension feels excessive, especially when aggression from star batters in the IPL is often brushed aside or mildly penalised. Some even referenced Virat Kohli’s numerous on-field outbursts, questioning why similar behaviour doesn’t trigger the same level of scrutiny.

The inconsistency in disciplinary action has triggered a flood of criticism online. Many believe the BCCI’s pattern of punishing bowlers more harshly reflects a systemic bias — one that could discourage passionate displays from emerging players.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Fans react as LSG out of IPL 2025 playoff contention after Rishabh Pant’s side falters against SRH

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AKSHAT GAUR
Akshat is the Sr. Content Strategist at CricketTimes.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Akshat has honed his skills over 6 years, working with various media outlets, publications, and organizations to deliver high-quality content that informs, educates, and entertains audiences. He is just another cricket fan who’s grown up watching the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. Cricket runs in his veins. Cover drive is his favorite sight, and a ball meeting the middle of the bat is his favorite sound. You can write to him at akshat.gaur@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.