The recent on-field spat between Nitish Rana and Digvesh Rathi during a Delhi Premier League (DPL) match has sparked considerable debate within the cricket fraternity. Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has weighed in on the controversy, urging against "character assassination" and calling for a more nuanced understanding of the situation.
The incident occurred during the Eliminator match between West Delhi Lions and South Delhi Superstarz. The disagreement apparently began when Rathi seemingly interrupted his bowling action, leading Rana to attempt a sweep shot in response. When Rathi returned to bowl, Rana stepped away from the crease. The situation escalated when Rana hit a six and then mockingly imitated Rathi’s signature "notebook celebration," leading to a heated exchange between the two players that required intervention from the umpire and other players. Rana went on to score a century, helping his team win. However, both players were penalized for breaching the code of conduct, with Rathi receiving a heavier fine.
Ashwin, known for his analytical approach to the game, addressed the controversy, emphasizing the importance of avoiding hasty judgments. "KV (K Vignesh), both of us have been bowlers. We have bowled to ensure we have food on our plates. You are aware of how difficult it is to be a bowler in T20. The thing is, in this world and society, if a bowler shows a bit of attitude, it is disliked. We still haven't accepted it when a bowler shows character, that's all".
Ashwin acknowledged that while he wasn't fully aware of who was at fault, both Rana and Rathi have distinct personalities. He highlighted Rana's perspective on the incident, where the West Delhi skipper stated that respecting the game was paramount. Rana himself admitted that Rathi initiated the altercation, but he refrained from divulging specific details. Rana has said, "It's not about who's right or wrong, he came to win the match for his team, and I came to win for mine," Rana said in a media interaction. "But respecting the game of cricket is my responsibility, and it's his as well. He was the one who started it. I won't say how or what happened, because that would be unfair".
Rana also stated that he wouldn't back down if provoked, asserting that he would respond in kind, possibly with sixes. "But yes, if someone pokes me or gets in my face, I'm not someone who will just sit quietly. Because this is how I've always played my cricket... If someone pokes me, and they think they'll get me out by provoking me, then I can also hit back with sixes. What happened yesterday was an example of that,” Nitish said.
The incident has drawn mixed reactions, with some former teammates of Rana expressing support for his actions. Phil Salt, Harshit Rana, and Suyash Sharma chimed in with playful banter on social media, seemingly backing Rana.
Ultimately, Ashwin's comments serve as a reminder to avoid jumping to conclusions and to consider all perspectives before forming opinions. He emphasized that both players were trying to win for their teams and that respecting the game should be the priority. He also said it is important not to "character assassinate" either player.
The DPL final took place on August 31, 2025, with Nitish Rana leading the West Delhi Lions against Central Delhi Kings. Rana scored an unbeaten 79 off 49 balls to help his team chase down the score and win the match.
