In a fiery moment during IPL 2025, Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin strongly criticized Rishabh Pant, the captain of Delhi Capitals, for allegedly humiliating Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) bowler Digvesh Rathi on the field. Ashwin took to social media and interviews to express his anger, saying that young players like Rathi should be encouraged, not publicly embarrassed.
The incident occurred during a high-pressure match between Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants, where Rathi was hit for multiple boundaries by Pant. After hitting a few big shots, Pant reportedly made a sarcastic gesture or comment that didn’t sit well with the cricketing community, especially Ashwin.
Ashwin said, “Stop this vilification of Digvesh Rathi. You’ve scarred him. He’s a young bowler doing his best. You don’t humiliate a player on live television like that.” This statement quickly went viral, sparking debates across social media, news platforms, and among fans.
What Happened on the Field?
According to match footage and commentators, Rishabh Pant hit Digvesh Rathi for three sixes in a row. After the third shot, he reportedly pointed towards the dugout and laughed. While some saw it as playful banter, others, including Ashwin, felt it crossed the line into disrespect. Rathi’s dejected body language after the over suggested he was shaken.
Cricket is often described as a gentleman’s game, and this incident sparked questions about the spirit of the game, especially towards young and less experienced players.
Ashwin’s Strong Stand
Ashwin, known for being vocal about fair play and mental health in sports, did not hold back. He said that actions like these damage the confidence of young cricketers and could impact their careers. His comments found support from other former players and fans online.
He added, “If we don’t support our juniors, how can we expect them to grow? This behavior is toxic.” This quote was shared widely and became a talking point among cricket circles.
Support for Digvesh Rathi
The young LSG bowler has not publicly responded yet, but sources from within the team suggest that he was emotionally affected by the on-field incident. LSG coaching staff are reportedly offering him psychological support and standing by his side.
Several Indian cricketers, both past and present, came out in support of Digvesh Rathi. Former pacer Irfan Pathan tweeted, “It’s okay to have a bad day on the field. But no one deserves to be mocked. Stay strong, Digvesh.” Fans echoed similar sentiments, appreciating Rathi’s talent and urging him not to lose confidence.
Rishabh Pant’s Response
Facing public backlash, Rishabh Pant finally broke his silence. In a brief media interaction, he said, “There was no intention to hurt anyone. I was caught in the heat of the moment. I respect every cricketer who steps on the field.”
While some accepted his apology, others felt it was too late and not heartfelt enough. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not commented on the matter, but sources say a verbal warning may have been issued to Pant.
Why This Matters
Incidents like this are not just about a single over or a single match. They raise bigger questions:
- Are young players getting enough respect on the field?
- Is mental health in cricket taken seriously?
- Should senior players be held accountable for public behavior?
The sport has evolved over the years, and with it, the importance of maintaining sportsmanship, especially in televised games watched by millions.
Fans React Online
Social media was flooded with reactions:
- One user wrote: “Ashwin is right. No one deserves humiliation on live TV. Kudos to him for standing up.”
- Another added: “Pant has to learn to control his emotions. He’s a great player but leadership is about empathy too.”
Some fans, however, defended Pant, saying cricket is emotional and such gestures are part of the game.
The Bigger Picture: Pressure and Performance
IPL is not just a cricket league; it’s a high-stakes tournament where performances define careers. With millions watching, a single mistake or a poor over can attract massive attention and criticism. While it’s thrilling for fans, it adds enormous pressure on young talents like Digvesh Rathi.
Experts believe more emphasis should be placed on mental conditioning and psychological support for young cricketers. Ashwin’s stand might help highlight the need for better systems to protect and empower emerging players.
The Ashwin vs Pant incident is more than just a cricketing disagreement; it’s a reminder of the power of words and actions on and off the field. As the IPL 2025 continues, fans and experts hope that the spirit of the game will be upheld, and young talents like Digvesh Rathi will continue to receive the support they need to thrive.
In Ashwin’s words, “Let’s lift our juniors, not tear them down.” A message that resonates far beyond just the boundary ropes
