IPL Drama: Lucknow Spinner Digvesh Rathi Suspended for One Match After Repeated Code of Conduct Breaches
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is no stranger to fiery moments on and off the pitch, and the recent saga involving Lucknow Super Giants’ young spinner Digvesh Rathi adds yet another twist to the ongoing season drama. Rathi has been handed a one-match suspension by the IPL Governing Council due to repeated violations of the league's Code of Conduct. This decision comes after a series of events that escalated tensions not only between players but also brought umpires and teammates into the mix.
What Led to Rathi’s Suspension? The Story Behind the Headlines
Digvesh Rathi had already racked up penalties twice before the latest incident. Known for his passionate celebrations after taking wickets, his exuberance started to rub the IPL authorities the wrong way. The tipping point was the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) where things got heated in a big way. During that game, Rathi got into a tense altercation with SRH batter Abhishek Sharma. The argument was so intense that the umpires and other players had to step in to calm things down.
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Three Code of Conduct Breaches This Season
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Repeated extravagant wicket celebrations
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Heated on-field altercation with Abhishek Sharma
These weren't just minor scuffles but serious enough for the IPL Governing Council and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to take a firm stand.
Official Statement: What the IPL Governing Council Had to Say
The IPL’s official release explained the disciplinary measures in clear terms. Here’s a breakdown:
“This was his third Level 1 offence under Article 2.5 this season and hence, he has accumulated Two Demerit Points, in addition to Three Demerit Points he had accumulated earlier - One Demerit Point against Punjab Kings on April 01, 2025 and Two Demerit Points against Mumbai Indians on April 04, 2025.”
Simply put, Rathi’s aggressive celebrations and conduct have cost him demerit points throughout the season. Accumulating five points in total triggered the automatic suspension rule.
Consequences for Digvesh Rathi:
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Fined 50% of his match fee
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Suspended for one match (the upcoming game against Gujarat Titans on May 22, 2025)
This suspension is a major blow to Lucknow Super Giants, especially since the spinner has been an essential part of their bowling attack. Missing him for the next game could shift team dynamics and give their opponents a tactical advantage.
Not Just Rathi: Abhishek Sharma Also Penalized
The altercation wasn’t a one-sided affair. SRH batter Abhishek Sharma also found himself on the wrong side of the disciplinary line. He was fined 25% of his match fee and was handed one demerit point for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct during the same match.
From the IPL’s statement:
“Abhishek Sharma, All-rounder, Sunrisers Hyderabad has been fined 25 per cent of his match fees for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct during his team's match against Lucknow Super Giants at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow on Monday. This was his first Level 1 offence under Article 2.6 this season and hence, he has accumulated One Demerit Point.”
While Sharma’s penalty isn’t as severe as Rathi’s suspension, the fine and demerit point serve as a warning. The IPL takes these altercations seriously as they impact the spirit and image of the league.
Breaking Down the IPL Code of Conduct and Demerit Points System
For those unfamiliar with how the IPL manages player behavior, the league enforces a strict Code of Conduct to maintain fair play and professionalism. Here’s a quick rundown of how the system works:
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Level 1 Offenses: Minor breaches like inappropriate celebration, showing dissent, or slow over-rate.
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Demerit Points: Each offense earns points; accumulating a certain number triggers penalties.
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Fines and Suspensions: Players can be fined a percentage of their match fee or suspended depending on points accumulated.
In Rathi’s case, reaching five demerit points means a one-game suspension, as clearly stipulated in the IPL’s disciplinary guidelines.
How This Suspension Impacts Lucknow Super Giants
The suspension comes at a critical time for Lucknow Super Giants. Digvesh Rathi has been a key spinner, contributing with crucial wickets and providing breakthroughs when needed. Missing him in the upcoming match against Gujarat Titans could upset their bowling plans.
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The Gujarat Titans boast a strong batting lineup, making Rathi’s absence more glaring.
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LSG will have to find a way to fill the spin gap, either by promoting a less experienced spinner or changing their bowling strategy.
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The team’s morale might also take a hit, considering the disciplinary distractions surrounding one of their players.
The Bigger Picture: IPL’s Zero Tolerance on Player Misconduct
The IPL has always been a high-stakes tournament with plenty of passion and pressure, but it also prides itself on upholding professionalism. Over the years, the league has tightened rules around player behavior, with the Code of Conduct evolving to address not just on-field actions but also social media conduct.
The message here is clear: players need to balance passion with sportsmanship.
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Celebrations are encouraged, but crossing the line into disrespect or aggression is not tolerated.
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On-field altercations disrupt the flow of the game and reflect poorly on the league.
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The IPL Governing Council has shown it will act decisively to maintain decorum.
What Fans and Experts Are Saying
Reactions to Rathi’s suspension have been mixed. Some fans believe the spinner was just showing raw emotion, something that makes the IPL exciting. Others argue that repeated offenses show a lack of maturity and professionalism.
Cricket analysts have weighed in too:
“While passion is part of the game, repeated breaches indicate a need for self-control. The IPL is a platform watched globally, and players must set the right example.”
The debate continues over how much discipline should be enforced versus allowing players to express themselves freely. But one thing is certain — repeated violations won’t be taken lightly.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Digvesh Rathi and the IPL
For Digvesh Rathi, this suspension is a wake-up call. The spinner will need to recalibrate his approach to celebrations and interactions on the field to avoid further disciplinary action. Consistency on the field coupled with controlled behavior off it can help him build a solid career in the IPL.
The league will keep monitoring player conduct closely, especially as the tournament reaches its crucial stages.
Key Takeaways
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Digvesh Rathi suspended for one game due to repeated Code of Conduct violations
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Fined 50% of his match fee and will miss the next LSG game vs Gujarat Titans
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Heated on-field altercation with Abhishek Sharma, who was also fined and given one demerit point
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IPL’s strict disciplinary system aims to maintain professionalism and sportsmanship
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LSG will need to adjust their bowling lineup for the upcoming match without Rathi
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The incident sparks debate on balancing passion and discipline in high-pressure cricket leagues
Final Thoughts
This episode underscores the intensity and drama that make the IPL such a thrilling spectacle. But it also highlights the challenges players face in managing emotions during high-stakes moments. As fans, we get to witness the highs and lows, the fiery rivalries, and the remarkable comebacks — all part of what makes the IPL one of the most exciting sporting leagues in the world.
For now, all eyes will be on how Lucknow Super Giants regroup without Digvesh Rathi and whether the spinner can come back stronger with a more disciplined approach in future matches.
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