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LSG's Digvesh Rathi Fined For Virat Kohli-Like 'Letter-Writing' Celebration

Sakshi Sharma

Digvesh Rathi receives hefty fine (Source:@mufaddal_vohra,x.com)Digvesh Rathi receives hefty fine (Source:@mufaddal_vohra,x.com)

LSG spinner, Digvesh Rathi, has been fined 25% of his match fee and handed a demerit point following his fiery 'letter-writing' celebration after dismissing Priyansh Arya on April 1. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) penalised Rathi for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct after his controversial send-off to Arya. 

BCCI Punish Digvesh Rathi For Breach Of IPL Code Of Conduct 

The incident occurred after Rathi dismissed Arya with a short and wide delivery, which Priyansh Arya top-edged for a catch. As Arya made his way off the field, Rathi mimicked writing a letter, a gesture that quickly drew comparisons to West Indies pacer Kesrick Williams' popular 'notebook' celebration. 

The umpires intervened, noting the celebration, which was considered inappropriate under the IPL's Code of Conduct.

According to Article 2.5 of the IPL Code of Conduct, such gestures, when directed at the dismissed player, are deemed to provoke an aggressive reaction or are disparaging in nature. Rathi admitted to the Level 1 breach, with the Match Referee’s decision being final and binding.

"Digvesh Singh admitted to the Level 1 offence under Article 2.5 and accepted the Match Referee's sanction. For Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct, the Match Referee's decision is final and binding." an IPL media advisory stated. 

Despite the controversy, Rathi was the standout bowler for LSG, taking 2/30 in his four overs. However, his team's lackluster performance allowed PBKS to chase down the target of 173 runs with ease, securing an 8-wicket win in just 16.2 overs. The victory propelled PBKS to second place in the points table.