In a sensational IPL 2025 game between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on May 19, 2025, at Ekana Cricket Stadium, a fiery off-field battle between LSG spinner Digvesh Rathi and SRH batter Abhishek Sharma dominated the show. The event was during SRH's run chase of a 206-run target, when Rathi sent Sharma packing after the batter had belted a devastating 59 off 20 balls with six of them being sixes. Rathi’s signature “notebook” celebration, perceived as provocative, sparked a heated verbal exchange, escalating tensions on the field.

The altercation didn’t end there. Post-match, during the handshake, the two players continued their animated exchange, prompting LSG assistant coach Vijay Dahiya to intervene and reportedly slap Sharma to diffuse the situation. BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla stepped in as a peacemaker, engaging both players in a calm conversation during the presentation ceremony. Shukla's mediation was captured in viral visuals, and his attempts to bring about harmony were appreciated by his fans. The incident, though, did attract much attention, diverting one from SRH's six-wicket win that pushed LSG out of the playoff hunt.

The BCCI reacted quickly, laying down stringent disciplinary actions. Rathi, who committed the third breach of the IPL Code of Conduct during this season, was suspended for one game and fined 50% of his match fee. His prior offences against Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians had already earned him five demerit points, triggering the ban. Sharma, facing his first violation, was fined 25% of his match fee. The incident sparked a memefest on social media, with fans poking fun at Rathi’s celebration and Sharma’s fiery retort, reportedly saying, “Choti kaat dunga” (I’ll chop off your hair).

Aftermath and Reactions

The incident clearly became the talk of the town, with former cricketer Suresh Raina criticising the behaviour of both Indian players throughout the commentary which, he says, was not ideal behaviour to set an example of. The various reactions and opinions made on social media were humourously bittersweet, as some people chastised the BCCI for taking heavy handed penalties with bowlers like Rathi, while others lauded Sharma's match-winning innings.

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In due course, despite the incident, both players appeared to have gotten over it - footage showed them chuckling together post-game, showcasing proper sportsmanship. This incident illustrates how emotionally battery the IPL was - and this incident with Shukla also represents how serious the BCCI take proper behaviour in cricket.