Srinagar: Former New Zealand cricketer turned commentator Simon Doull has come in support of LSG spinner Digvesh Rathi who has been fined multiple times by BCCI for hs notebook celebrations during IPL 2025.
Lucknow Super Giants spinner Digvesh Rathi brpught out fresh version of his trademark celebration – this time, ‘writing on the floor’ – after dismissing Sunil Narine, during the IPL 2025 clash against Kolkata Knight Riders.
This was a subtle tweak to his earlier ‘notebook celebration’, which had already landed him in trouble twice with the match officials.
Rathi drew attention and fines from the BCCI for his celebration act – an act that, according to many, was harmless banter.
But with repeat offences placing him on the verge of suspension, the spinner appeared to tone down the theatrics while still staying true to his celebration.
Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull has come out in support of Rathi voicing his discontent over the treatment meted out to the youngster.
“The team have got to be paying that (the fines). I don’t like it. I love the celebrations, I don’t think he has done anything at all wrong. I’ve seen senior Indian players do way worse, be in your face, and not get a fine. They are making an example out of a young man who is what, making a note in his notebook?” Doull said on Cricbuzz, adding that the inconsistency in how players are penalised is frustrating.
The situation has also drawn responses from within the league. Shahbaz Ahmed, speaking ahead of the KKR-LSG fixture, confirmed the friendly nature of the celebration.
“Priyansh Arya (who Digvesh dismissed to bring out the celebration for the first time) is his very good friend..he did it on a friendly note, but since he is on the verge of suspension, I hope he doesn’t repeat it,” he said.
The toned-down act has seemingly passed the scrutiny of match referees this time; Digvesh has had a stellar start to the season himself, being among the wickets in all the matches he has played so far. The spinner has 7 wickets to his name in five matches so far.