Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) spinner Digvesh Rathi has been quite a character in this edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). His on-field antics led to a one-match suspension apart from the fines, and on Tuesday the spinner was admired by fans minus the trolls.
It had to do with Rathi being two chances to dismiss Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) Jitesh Sharma, who was eventually named the Player Of The Match. His unbeaten 85 off just 33 balls, laced with eight 4s and six 6s, saw RCB chase down a stiff 228-run target with 1.2 overs to spare and win the match by six wickets. The hammering also saw RCB climb second on the points table, which now allows them a lifeline in case of a hiccup at the playoffs.
Coming back to the moment, which was one of the highlights of the match - the eventful 17th over of the run chase. It began with Rathi dismissing Jitesh, who failed to get a desired connection while attempting a reverse-sweep. The ball was pouched by Ayush Badoni at backward point, although there was no clarity if the ball was collected cleanly by the fielder. However, Rathi believed he got his man and broke out in his trademark notebook celebration, which has earlier landed him in trouble this season.
However, there was a twist as umpires were getting clarity over the catch the sirens blew indicating a no-ball, making the celebration a waste. To rub salt on LSG's wounds it was not a no-ball for overstepping, rather it was a backfoot no-ball, which in itself is a rare occurrence.
The next ball, a free-hit delivery, was hit for a maximum by Jitesh, which also got him to his maiden half-century in the IPL. The drama didn't end here as right before the final delivery of the over Rathi attempted a Mankad, debatable as per the spirit of the game but correct as per the rules, however, Jitesh once again survived.
WATCH: Rishabh Pant drops front-flip celebration after sensational century during LSG vs RCB clash
This time Rathi had broke the stumps with Jitesh standing outside of the crease but after close examination by the third umpire NOT OUT flashed on the giant screen. The reason being Rathi had "completed his delivery stride and passed the popping crease". The moment also witnessed Rishabh Pant winning hearts as the LSG skipper decided to withdraw the appeal despite Rathi wanted his captain to go through it. However, in the end none of that mattered as TV replay confirmed it was not-out.
The Mankad instance also left Virat Kohli irked in the dressing room, who almost threw a bottle in his hand out of frustration.
But after all this social media was flooded with reactions admiring Rathi, with many expressing that cricket needs such players otherwise the sport gets "boring". Here are a few reactions:
Purchased for Rs 30 lakhs, Rathi finished the season as Lucknow's highest wicket-taker, registering 14 scalps in 13 matches. In fact he was also the most economical among them.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
