IPL 2025 Heats Up: Abhishek Sharma vs Digvesh Rathi

💥 The Moment: SRH vs LSG Turns Fiery at Ekana

In a season already packed with stunning performances and close finishes, IPL 2025’s most controversial moment erupted during the clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Ekana Stadium.

It was the 8th over of SRH’s chase when Digvesh Rathi, the emerging LSG spinner known for his fiery celebrations, dismissed the explosive Abhishek Sharma after he smashed a brutal 59 off just 20 balls. But instead of a routine send-off, Rathi pulled out his now infamous ‘notebook celebration’ — the gesture that many find more mocking than motivating.

Abhishek wasn’t having it.

🔥 What Followed: Words, Warnings & A Heated Exchange

The southpaw walked straight up to Rathi, exchanged a few fiery words, and tempers flared. Umpires had to physically separate the two as things escalated. What should have been a thrilling game moment turned into a viral controversy within minutes.

🚨 BCCI Takes Action: Suspensions and Fines

The aftermath was swift:

• 🟥 Digvesh Rathi was fined 50% of his match fee and suspended for one match, marking his third Level 1 offense of the season.

• 🟨 Abhishek Sharma was fined 25% and handed a demerit point for instigating the confrontation.

🤝 BCCI Steps In to De-Escalate

BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla personally intervened to prevent further fallout, stating:

“We encourage intensity but not hostility. The players have been counseled. The focus must remain on cricket, not conflict.”

😂 Meme Fest and Fan Reactions

Social media did what it does best — memes flooded in, with fans picking sides, creating reels, and debating whether Rathi’s celebration crossed the line. #NotebookWar trended for two days.

One viral meme read: “Rathi taking notes on how not to mess with Sharma!”

🧠 Editor’s Take: Mind Games or Misconduct?

While player passion is the essence of IPL, this clash reignited an age-old debate: How far is too far when it comes to celebrations? Was Abhishek right to retaliate? Did Rathi go overboard?

Either way, the IPL 2025 script just added a spicy new chapter.

Cover Pic credit: @IPL (X/ Twitter)