That could've been a match-turning moment for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), but it ended in a no-ball and extra delivery. Digvesh Rathi pulled out his trademark 'notebook celebration,' but it was the field umpire who asked Royal Challengers Bengaluru's stand-in skipper Jitesh Sharma to wait.

After examining the backfoot of Rathi, the umpire declared it a no ball. Thus, Sharma revived, and RCB got a huge boost to tilt the match momentum towards them. When Rathi was in the mood to celebrate Sharma's wicket, LSG captain Rishabh Pant tried to normalize the bowler; perhaps from a keeper's view right from behind the stumps, Pant possibly noticed the back foot of Digvesh.

The moment was caught on camera when Pant asked Rathi to hold his nerves for a while. The incident took place at the first ball of the 17th over. Jitesh chose to counter the LSG spinner with a reverse sweep but timed it wrong, and Ayush Badoni dove forward and took a low catch.

Read More: WATCH: Relive winning moments of historic win for RCB against LSG in IPL 2025

The match suddenly spiced-up for a backfoot no ball 

The stand-in captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru was on fire, and his wicket meant a lot for Digvesh; Sharma was ready to take a long walk towards the dugout. At this crucial moment, the umpire's decision changed the whole complexion of the scenario.

Rathi ended up bowling a back-foot no-ball; the umpire signaled it for a free hit. Jitesh utilized the chance with open arms, lofting the ball for a maximum. RCB successfully chased down LSG's 227, and Sharma was awarded the man of the match award for his unbeaten 85-run innings. 

Watch the match turning moment here

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Mr. Singh (@mrsinghlion)

In an exciting IPL 2025 fixture with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) facing the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Ekana Cricket Stadium, there was drama in the 17th over of RCB's chase of a target of 228 via a ball that LSG spinner Digvesh Rathi was bowling, when he attempted a Mankad run-out of RCB's stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma, who was backing up too far at the non-striker's end. Rathi stopped mid-delivery and removed the bails before appealing with Jitesh well out of his crease when replays were shown.

The drama escalated as the decision went to the third umpire, But LSG captain Rishabh Pant decided to withdraw the appeal, which would have led to a major turning point in the match by possibly achieving a precarious wicket. Pant's actions drew the praise of some but reignited the discussions surrounding the ethics of Mankading, which is considered a legal action under the laws of cricket but often not seen in the spirit of the game. Jitesh, obviously relieved, ran to Pant to hug him in appreciation, and the crowd at Ekana Stadium showed their appreciation for the spirit of the game.

Jitesh took full advantage of the reprieve and made a match-defining innings that changed the match in favor of RCB. His blazing 85 runs off just 33 balls, with eight fours and six sixes, carried RCB to a six-wicket win, chasing 228 in 18.4 overs for their highest IPL chase ever.

Jitesh Shines as RCB Secure Qualifier 1 Spot 

With that win, RCB earned a place among the top two, qualifying them for Qualifier 1 against the Punjab Kings. Meanwhile, Jitesh’s explosive knock was the icing on the cake and made Pant’s gallant knock of 118* off 61 balls for LSG feel quite insignificant to keep the RCB train rolling into the playoffs.

Watch the video here

This Digvesh Rathi not only issues challans... but is also a fraud...

"Digvesh Rathi" #RCBvsLSG "Jitesh Sharma" "Digvesh Rathi" #RCBvsLSG "Rishabh Pant" Render Digvesh "Jitesh Sharma" "And Putin" #IPL25@StarSportsIndia pic.twitter.com/2C1Rr4P1qU

— Sahil Khanna (@SahilKh83593460) May 27, 2025

Also Read: IPL 2025, Match 70: Lucknow Super Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Full Match Highlights

This match is remembered for Jitesh’s fireworks; it will also be remembered for the camaraderie that descended into a controversial situation, providing a great balance of cricket both in terms of rules and ethics.

In the 2025 IPL clash between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), a moment involving Jitesh Sharma has sparked widespread discussion. While Sharma was backing up too far as he stood at the non-striker's end before the ball was delivered, which raised eyebrows among fans and experts. Many felt that Sharma should have been run out by being Mankaded, but it did not lead to confusion with the ruling. 

According to Law 41.16 of the MCC Laws of Cricket, a bowler may only attempt to run out a non-striker at the non-striker's end if the non-striker had abandoned his crease before the bowler completed his delivery stride. Although Sharma abandoned the crease early, the bowler had already entered the delivery stride and was releasing the ball. The non-striker was no longer entitled to run out, meaning it would not have been legal to perform a Mankading dismissal in regard to the delivery.

The umpires applied the relevant laws appropriately in this instance. Jitesh may have left the crease early, but since the bowler's attempt was after the league delivery stride, the appeal subsequently failed. In the end, this is a timely reminder about the precise nature of cricket's laws and a little something to reinforce why Mankading is one of the most contested dismissals in the game.

The Match Outcome and Aftermath

RCB won the match by 6 wickets, chasing down LSG’s total of 227/3. LSG’s innings was powered by a blistering knock from Jitesh Sharma, who smashed 85 runs off just 33 balls, lighting up the stadium with boundaries. However, RCB responded strongly, reaching 230/4 in 18.4 overs.

Also Read: WATCH: Rishabh Pant's acrobatic celebration after brilliant century in LSG vs RCB game in IPL 2025

Although the Mankading did not influence the result, it did instigate some discussions in cricket circles. What it does reflect is the need for bowlers to understand the timing rules should they wish to execute a non-striker run-out within the laws of the game.

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.

Also Read: Mumbai Indians announce key replacements for IPL 2025 Playoffs push

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.

In IPL 2025 Match 61, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) knocked out Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by a 6-wicket win at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. LSG, who batted first after SRH had won the toss, scored 205/7, thanks to Mitchell Marsh's 65 (39) and Aiden Markram's 61 (38). Nicholas Pooran's 45 (26) was a late flourish, but SRH's bowlers, headed by Eshan Malinga (2/28), restricted the run-rate despite Harsh Dubey's costly 1/44.

SRH's pursuit was driven by Abhishek Sharma's 59 (20) off the straps early. Heinrich Klaasen (47 off 28) and Ishan Kishan (35 off 28) ensured an easy ride with a smooth finish to 206/4 in 18.2 overs. LSG's bowlers found it hard, with Digvesh Rathi (2/37) picking crucial wickets but failing to prevent the flow of runs. Will O'Rourke (1/31) and Shardul Thakur (1/39) were unable to halt SRH's run, as LSG's fielding errors and failure to pick up wickets cost them.

This defeat ruled LSG out of playoff contention, with Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals competing for the last spot. SRH's dominating chase consolidated their playoff standing, reflecting their depth and pressure-handling capability in a do-or-die game. Here are the top reasons why LSG lost to SRH.

1. Ineffective Powerplay Bowling

LSG was unable to make early inroads in the powerplay while defending a large total. Abhishek Sharma's aggressive 59 of 20 balls simply took the game away in the first six overs. Lack of control and penetration amongst LSG's bowlers enabled SRH to score without any restraint and gain early momentum, making the chase that much more easier.

2. Lack of Ability to Defend a Strong Total

Bowlers for LSG were unable to sustain any of the pressure and threat throughout the innings in this game, despite posting a competitive score of 205/7. Since there was no bowler performing, particularly due to lack of aggression and attacking field placement, there was little sustained speculation. The best bowler was Digvesh Rathi, with little support from the other bowlers who ultimately could not contain Klaasen and Ishan Kishan (SRH middle order).

Also Read: IPL 2025, Match 61: Lucknow Super Giants vs Sunrisers Hyderabad Full Match Highlights

3. Lack of Bowling Depth and Injuries

LSG's all-season problem of injuries to major bowlers caught up with them again. The side did not have a consistent death bowling option and spin variety, which was taken advantage of by SRH's batsmen in the latter stages of the game. As captain Rishabh Pant concurred, lack of a settled bowling attack because of injuries impacted their game plans and execution.

A high-stakes drama unfolded during the IPL 2025 game with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), as a heated confrontation between Abhishek Sharma and Digvesh Rathi was at center stage. This moment was captured on video and has since gone viral. In the clip, there was clearly a standoff. Abhishek, well-known for his power-hitting was animated and clearly displeased, whereas Digvesh, infamously known for his antics and antics against opponent players, was nonchalant. The umpires and players intervened to separate the players, nevertheless, the incident added a very emotional edge to the game, and certainly will be viewed and replayed by many viewers.
 
The confrontation occurred when the match was becoming tense, SRH was in a chase of 130 runs off the last five overs, and were at 101-2. Abhishek was returning to the field after scoring 74 runs against the Gujarat Titans in the last SRH game. Abhishek appeared to be rattled by either a bad call or comment made by Digvesh. In the video, with tension clearly evident, Abhishek was in his orange jersey animatedly pointing and gesturing, whereas Digvesh in his LSG blue jersey remained calm and visibly calm. The umpires intervened so the incident did not grow, however, the intensity was felt after the last ball.

Digvesh Rathi is no stranger to controversy during IPL 2025. The 24-year-old spinner, known for his mystery deliveries, has already been fined, not once but twice, for over-zealous celebrations (Elbow Snake? No, it was worse: a notebook was involved) that cost him upwards of Rs 5.6 lakh overall. His incident involving Abhishek is also part of a very tumultuous season. Ironically, Abhishek—who is usually so relaxed—appeared to show some serious emotion himself (perhaps he too was still fuming from SRH's previous loss to GT, where he was playing the role of peacemaker).

Watch the video here

Fight between Digvesh Rathi and Abhishek Sharma 😳 pic.twitter.com/8ngcvpnIVK

— 𝑺𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒂 (@SheraVK18) May 19, 2025

Also Read: IPL 2025 Playoff Race: What LSG needs to do to qualify for knockouts?

Social Media and What's Next

Social media has also become the battleground for opinions and debate about their interaction. There are some supporters blaming Digvesh for inciting the situation, and there are ‘ equal ‘ number of fans praising them both for their 'passion' for the game. As playoffs approach, these stars will have to find the balance between aggression and composure. One thing is for sure—the energy and veracity in their exchange has heightened the narrative of the IPL and is only going to give rise to more fireworks as the IPL plays out.

In the colorful IPL 2025 show, Lucknow Super Giants' spinner, Digvesh Rathi has not only been the talk of the town for his 10 wickets in 10 matches, but also for his unique "notebook celebration." Rathi does a writing motion in the air, when he gets the wicket of the opponent, one that has driven the fans crazy. According to the words of Abhishek Tripathi, Rathi confessed, “I have purchased a notebook and wish to jot down the names of all the wickets that I have taken and take it with me…,” thus indicating that he wanted to do it. As he dismissed the players, Rathi gestured the process of writing their names in his imaginary notebook, a step that had fans in awe.

One instance, the celebration was seen for the first time in the match against Punjab Kings. Rathi was in a jubilant mood after dismissing Priyansh Arya and made a mockery of his notebook brandishing. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took action and fined Rathi for being in violation of the IPL Code of Conduct but Rathi, who was not a quitter, stood by his unusual reaction of repeating the performance while dealing with big players such as Sunil Narine and Shreyas Iyer. In bowling, his economy rate is 7.43, which is a clear indication of his proficiency in it, but it is the excitement of the act of gratitude and praises that has brought about the arguments with reporters like Sunil Gavaskar, calling it a “show off.”

Rathi's celebration particularly gained a lot more affection from his camaraderie with Priyansh Arya, adding that Rathi's fervor made it much more interesting for the fans. he said, “I am the center of attention only because of my celebration,” noting that his was a psychological and uplifting action. The family's advice to be respectful of other players from different places made Rathi come up with humorous acts such as signing the grass after he took the wicket of Narine, his idol, in a Kolkata Knight Riders match.

A Celebration Beyond Controversy

He was still in high spirits, Rathi had fines amounting to Rs 5,62,500, and he also was given the 4th demerit point by the authorities for his conduct in the IPL. The situation had a double character. Simon Doull was an opponent to the BCCI, saying, “They punish me but you can do whatever you like!” Shahbaz Ahmed confirmed that the matter had been just fun when he said, “We were just joking about it”. A laugh was brought about by him, his teammates, teammates were enjoying the time together.

Also Read: Why did Virat Kohli stay silent as fans came in rain to celebrate his legacy?

Rathi's transformation from a Rs 30 lakh purchase to a prominent player not only highlights his determination but is also an inspiration to many. His haters marvel his brass by portraying his joke, "Short circuit," to be the one that is wrong. As he records wickets in his notebook—literal or not—Rathi is crafting a legacy of passion and triumph in IPL 2025, one name at a time.

In the IPL 2025, spinner Digvesh Singh Rathi from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) achieved both on-field success and attracted controversy during Indian Premier League (IPL) games for LSG. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) issued consecutive warnings to Rathi about his celebrations before he spoke publicly about the matter. The 'notebook' celebration launched in the Punjab Kings vs. LSG game became his famous move after dismissing Priyansh Arya. Kescrick Williams served as the source of inspiration for this particular celebration. Match fee deductions worth 25 percent, together with a single demerit point, constituted the penalties imposed. Following the dismissal of Naman Dhir, Rathi performed the celebration once more in the Mumbai Indians game, where he attracted additional punitive measures that approached a one-game suspension.

Also Read: IPL 2025: MI vs SRH Match 33 - Wankhede stadium stats and preview

The penalties did not stop Rathi from displaying adjustment skills when he played against Kolkata Knight Riders. Following the elimination of his role model Sunil Narine, he altered his victory dance to writing in the grass, which protected him from more BCCI disciplinary actions. Rathi modified his celebration to show both his commitment to expressing himself while following the rules. Sunny Rathi disclosed during an interview how he warned his brother Digvesh to respect his opponents in an exclusive conversation. Digvesh told me about it when I inquired about his actions. He said it motivates him. He understood that he could use the gesture as motivation, yet I explained that he should respect his opponents without disgrace. Sunny confirmed that Digvesh maintained his actions for internal motivation since he had just joined social media and presented a composed demeanor through his statement, "What's the point of making updates without actually having any status?"

Digvesh has been a rising Star in the IPL

The field performances by Rathi have proven his value as a critical player for LSG. The franchise purchased Rathi for INR 30 lakhs based on his exceptional DPL campaign, which allowed him to prove the worth of their investment in the Narine-like player. During seven IPL matches, Rathi secured nine wickets, which placed him as the second-highest wicket-taker for LSG after Shardul Thakur, who had eleven wickets. His average rate of 7.43 supports the data showing his capability to stop runs and secure critical wickets, making him a fundamental element of the LSG bowling line-up.

The coming games will demand that Rathi modify his match play and emotional expression effectively. As he remains focused yet adapts his creative celebrations, his skills as one of the league's emerging young spinners will secure his position in the ranks if he can handle professional boundaries effectively.

The match between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) lived up to fans' expectations, delivering a thrilling contest between bat and ball. Defending a competitive total of 204, LSG's bowlers had a dream start, dismissing both MI openers within the first four overs. This early setback left MI struggling at 17/2 in match number 16 at IPL 2025.

However, Naman Dhir turned the tide with a brilliant batting display, attacking the LSG bowlers and scoring freely around the ground. Just as he looked set for a big score, he was outfoxed by a beautiful googly from Digvesh Rathee. The dismissal came immediately after the strategic timeout, as Dhir failed to read a loopy googly, leading to his downfall.

Beyond the wicket, what caught even more attention was Rathee’s celebration. It was the same gesture he had used after dismissing Punjab Kings' opener, Priyansh Arya, though this time, his celebration appeared more controlled and composed.

Also read: https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2025-digvesh-singh-fined-for-excessive-celebration-in-recent-match-lsg-vs-pbks/

Lets see how Twitter reacted to this celebration from Digvesh Rathi;

This send-off by Digvesh Rathi to Naman Dhir 😭 ✍️ #LSGvMI pic.twitter.com/oPJmDthkNb

— CricXtasy (@CricXtasy) April 4, 2025

Lagta hai agli baar Digvesh Rathi advance fine bharke hi aayega 😂#LSGvsMI pic.twitter.com/CYCB5Slrby

— Rajabets 🇮🇳👑 (@rajabetsindia) April 4, 2025

Digvesh Rathi fined previously for celebrating ✍️

Meanwhile Digvesh in this match: 👇🏻#LSGvsMI pic.twitter.com/UseHgfNbQV

— Tata IPL 2025 Commentary (@IPL2025Auction) April 4, 2025

Digvesh Rathi was fined 25 % match fees against Punjab Kings

Rathi was fined 25% of his match fees and received a demerit point for allegedly displaying unsporting behavior. His Aryan-style celebration was deemed a violation of the code of conduct for sporting professionals. Authorities emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline in the game, particularly in avoiding provocative actions.

They highlighted the distinction between his usual celebrations and the controversial Aryan gesture, stating that the latter crossed the line of acceptable conduct for any sportsperson.