Digvesh Rathi, the rookie spinner lighting up the IPL with 9 wickets in 7 games, has been making waves—not just with the ball, but with a pen. His now-viral “notebook” celebration, where he mimics writing down a batter’s name after dismissing them, had fans hyped... but the BCCI? Not so much.
Rathi was fined twice—50% of his match fees—for breaching the Level 1 Code of Conduct after celebrating during games against Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians. Two demerit points later, many were asking the same question: “Is cricket losing its fun?”
Apparently, the backlash got loud enough to spark change.
According to a report by Cricbuzz, IPL umpires were instructed during a recent internal review to be more lenient on player celebrations moving forward. Yes, you read that right—a rookie may have just shifted the culture of the world’s biggest T20 league.
Rathi’s celebration wasn’t vulgar, offensive, or unsportsmanlike. It was pure charisma—something the IPL thrives on. In an era where athletes are building personal brands and fans crave personality just as much as performance, the crackdown felt out of touch.
But now? It looks like the system is correcting itself.
This quiet policy shift isn’t just about Digvesh Rathi. It’s about cricket evolving, embracing individuality, and realizing that expression is entertainment. The IPL has always been the flashy, Gen Z-friendly cousin of traditional cricket. And if that means letting players like Rathi bring some extra flair? That’s a win for everyone.
Rathi will be back in action as LSG take on Rajasthan Royals this weekend. And you can bet all eyes will be on him—not just for his bowling, but for what comes after the wicket.
Because this time, the notebook might just come out... without a price tag.
