Digvesh Rathi Suspended for Aggressive Behavior in IPL Match
Suspension of Digvesh Rathi
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) spinner Digvesh Rathi has received a one-match suspension due to a violation of the IPL Code of Conduct. This decision follows an incident involving an aggressive send-off directed at Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) opener Abhishek Sharma during a match at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on May 19.
The controversy erupted when Rathi performed his 'notebook' celebration to taunt Sharma after the latter was dismissed. This occurred in the 8th over of SRH's chase of 206 runs, when Sharma attempted a big shot off Rathi's delivery but was caught by Shardul Thakur. As Sharma walked back to the dugout, Rathi made aggressive gestures, which Sharma found disrespectful.
The situation escalated into a heated exchange between the two players, prompting intervention from LSG teammates and on-field umpires to separate them. Fortunately, the matter was resolved after the match.
Consequences for Rathi
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken decisive action against Rathi for his repeated breaches of conduct during the IPL season. In an official statement, it was announced that Rathi would face a fine of 50% of his match fee, along with two demerit points and a one-match suspension.
"Digvesh Singh, Bowler, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) has been fined 50 percent of his match fees for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct," the BCCI statement confirmed.
Rathi has a history of on-field aggression this season, having been fined twice previously and accumulating three demerit points. His first infraction involved a send-off to Punjab Kings opener Priyansh Arya, resulting in one demerit point and a 25% fine. His second offense occurred when he taunted Mumbai Indians' batter Naman Dir, leading to two demerit points and a 50% fine. With five total demerit points, he faced an automatic one-match suspension.
Abhishek Sharma Also Penalized
In a related development, Abhishek Sharma of Sunrisers Hyderabad has also been fined for his confrontation with Rathi. According to the BCCI, Sharma has been penalized 25% of his match fee for violating the IPL Code of Conduct.
"This was his first Level 1 offence under Article 2.6 this season, resulting in one demerit point. The Match Referee's decision is final for Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct," the BCCI media release stated.
Lucknow Super Giants Eliminated from IPL 2025
In other news, the Lucknow Super Giants have been eliminated from IPL 2025 after suffering a six-wicket loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad. LSG set a target of 205/7 in their 20 overs, but SRH successfully chased down the target with 10 balls remaining.
Abhishek Sharma played a pivotal role in the chase, scoring 59 runs off just 20 balls, supported by Heinrich Klaasen (47), Kamindu Mendis (32), and Ishan Kishan (35). With this defeat, LSG joins Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Kolkata Knight Riders in missing out on playoff contention, currently sitting seventh with five wins and seven losses, totaling 10 points from 12 matches.