IPL 2025: Sunil Gavaskar blasts Digvesh Rathi’s Kesrick Williams-style send-off to Priyansh Arya draws umpire’s rage
GH News April 02, 2025 10:06 AM

During an intense Indian Premier League (IPL) match Lucknow Super Giants Digvesh Rathis celebration after dismissing Punjab Kings Priyansh Arya drew criticism. Rathis perceived disrespectful gesture has generated significant debate particularly among commentators like Sunil Gavaskar who disapproved of the action.
During IPL 2025s 13th match in Lucknow a high-priced player Priyansh Arya (INR 3.8 crore) faced off against his former Delhi teammate Rathi (INR 30 lakh).
Arya dismissed early attempted another aggressive shot but mistimed it resulting in a straightforward catch. Rathis celebratory gesture towards Arya interpreted by some as mocking provoked mixed reactions from the audience.
Sunil Gavaskar publicly criticized a viral moment deeming the action both unnecessary and offensive. His criticism wasnt limited to social media; he voiced his disapproval on television.
“Do batters give send-offs after hitting a four?” Gavaskar asked during commentary.
“This tells me he didn’t even expect to get a wicket. I would never do something like that after hitting a bowler.”
Cricket commentator Graeme Swann drew a parallel between a celebratory action and Kesrick Williams notorious notebook celebration which backfired spectacularly when Virat Kohli responded aggressively in 2017. Sunil Gavaskar then highlighted the outcome of that incident where Kohlis powerful batting and retaliatory celebration overshadowed Williams.
Both Rathi and Arya both from Delhi were involved in an incident during a match. Aryas substantial salary increase contrasted with Rathis ongoing career progression leading to an interpretation of the celebration as overly personal. The umpire intervened issuing Rathi a warning.
Punjab Kings (PBKS) comfortably achieved their 172-run target against Gujarat Titans (GT) despite GTs early wicket of Arya. Prabhsimran Singhs quick 69 and Shreyas Iyers half-century powered PBKS to victory in under 17 overs.