'He's not doing it for attention': Real reason behind Digvesh Rathi's controversial 'notebook' celebration

Real reason behind Digvesh Rathi's controversial 'notebook' celebration (IPL Photo)

Digvesh Rathi has made headlines in the 2025 Indian Premier League with his outstanding play for the Lucknow Super Giants and his unafraid demeanor. However, the breakaway spinner's "notebook" celebration — for which he received two penalties from the BCCI this season — has continued to be the talking point.

The LSG rookie spoke out about the celebration for the first time after the Indian board issued two warnings in a row. During the match between Lucknow and Punjab Kings, Rathi initiated the "notebook" celebration in the manner of Kescrick Williams after dismissing Priyansh Arya. He received one demerit point and a fine equal to 25 percent of his match fees.

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But he didn't learn from his mistake and after removing Naman Dhir in the next match against Mumbai Indians, the spinner was seen passing similar gesture. This led to two demerit points and he was also slapped a 50 percent fine on his match fee by the BCCI, putting him in danger of receiving a one-match suspension.

However, after dismissing his idol Sunil Narine during the match against the Kolkata Knight Riders, he made some changes in his celebration and adopted the "writing on the grass" act. This time, however, he was not punished by BCCI.

Rathi's brother Sunny questioned him about his "notebook" act and cautioned him against making fun of any player. "I did ask Digvesh about it. He told me it motivates him. I said, 'Okay, if that helps you play better, fine, but don't disrespect any player'. He's not doing it to attract attention. He was not even on social media till recently… wouldn't even update his WhatsApp status. He would say, 'what is the point of status update, when you don't have status'?" a report in the Indian Express quoted Sunny as saying.

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After impressing Lucknow scouts with his performance in the first-ever edition of the Delhi Premier League (DPL), the spinner was purchased by the franchise for Rs 30 lakhs and is proving to be worth every penny.

Rathi has so far taken nine wickets at an economy rate of 7.43 in seven matches, which currently is second-most by an LSG bowler after Shardul Thakur (11).