Delhi Capitals’ bowling coach, Munaf Patel, has been fined 25% of his match fee and received one demerit point for violating the IPL Code of Conduct during the intense match against Rajasthan Royals. This match, held on April 16, 2025, saw Delhi Capitals secure a dramatic victory in a Super Over after both teams finished with 188 runs.

According to an IPL announcement, Patel acknowledged his Level 1 offence under Article 2.20 of the IPL Code of Conduct, which addresses actions that go against the spirit of the game. The statement confirmed that Patel’s fine and demerit points were a result of this violation during the game played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday.

While the specific details of his offence were not disclosed, it is believed that the penalty stemmed from his dispute with a match official when he was denied the opportunity to send a player onto the field to deliver a message.

Munaf Patel, who played a vital role in India’s triumph in the 2011 ODI World Cup under captain M.S. Dhoni, joined the Delhi Capitals coaching staff in November 2024, succeeding James Hopes.

Article 2.20 of the IPL Code of Conduct encompasses various behaviours that contradict the spirit of the sport but are not explicitly addressed in other sections. It may include, depending on the severity and context, various infractions such as using illegal equipment or failing to adhere to certain match conditions.

The IPL Code also notes that the context of the offence, including intent and circumstances, is taken into account in determining the severity of the conduct, ranging from minor infractions categorised as Level 1 offences to serious breaches classified as Level 4 offences.

Following India’s 3-1 Test series defeat in the Border Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly preparing to make significant changes to the national team’s support staff. According to sources, the board is set to sack three key members from Gautam Gambhir’s coaching setup amid concerns over dressing room leaks and internal unrest.

Assistant coach Abhishek Nayar likely to be removed

Abhishek Nayar, who joined as assistant coach just eight months ago, is reportedly on the way out. Despite being a respected name in the domestic circuit and within the team management, Nayar is expected to be relieved of his duties. The move comes amidst a wave of reports suggesting internal tensions and leaks from the Indian dressing room following the recent series defeat.

While there has been no official confirmation from the BCCI, insiders have revealed that the board had issued a directive indicating that support staff members who have been with the team for over three years may be released. In line with this, fielding coach T Dilip and strength and conditioning trainer Soham Desai are also likely to be removed.

No replacements for Nayar and Dilip; Kotak and Doeschate to step up

Reports indicate that the board will not appoint direct replacements for Nayar and Dilip. Instead, Sitanshu Kotak, a stalwart of the domestic game who is already part of the team’s coaching structure, is expected to assume broader responsibilities. Former Netherlands cricketer Ryan ten Doeschate will take over fielding duties.

Meanwhile, South African fitness expert Adrian Le Roux is likely to take over Desai’s role post-IPL. Le Roux, currently associated with Punjab Kings, has a long history in cricket fitness roles, including previous stints with Kolkata Knight Riders (2008–2019) and the Indian team (2002–2003).

Gautam Gambhir addresses unrest, calls for unity and performance

In the midst of the controversy, India head coach Gautam Gambhir has attempted to downplay the unrest within the team. Speaking to the media, Gambhir emphasized the importance of keeping dressing room discussions private and reaffirmed his commitment to honest and performance-driven team culture.

“Debates between coach and player should remain in the dressing room,” said Gambhir, denying the authenticity of the leaked reports. “There were honest words, and honesty is important. Indian cricket will be in safe hands as long as honest people stay in the dressing room,” he added.

He reiterated the value of a “team first” mindset, underlining that while individual flair is appreciated, the team’s needs must take precedence.

Emerging Indian Premier League (IPL) star Digvesh Rathi has become one of the standout performers for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the ongoing season. Known for his disciplined spin bowling and distinctive notebook-style celebration, Rathi’s journey to the big stage is a testament to perseverance in the face of adversity.

No backing, no wealth – just raw grit

Hailing from Delhi, Rathi’s path to professional cricket was anything but easy. His brother, Sunny, who works as a police constable at the Mandoli Prison Complex, recalled how the family struggled financially and was even advised to relocate due to the hardships. “Digvesh had no godfather, we had no money or influence. We were advised to move out of Delhi. Par bhag kyun jaye (but why would we run away)?” Sunny shared.

Despite the odds, Digvesh remained determined. Originally starting out as a batter, he transitioned into spin bowling due to limited opportunities at practice nets. Inspired by West Indian spinner Sunil Narine, Rathi moulded his technique and style after his idol, eventually catching attention with his skills.

Rejection and recognition

Sunny further revealed how local players ignored Digvesh during matches. “When it was his turn to bat, bowlers avoided him as he wasn’t a known name. Even when he played good strokes, their ego was hurt. Players didn’t want to waste their own cricket balls on him. I would bowl to him for hours, but one bowler isn’t enough to train properly,” he said.

His turning point came when former India wicketkeeper Vijay Dahiya spotted him and invited him to train at his academy. Later, Digvesh’s performance in the Delhi Premier League — where he bagged 14 wickets for South Delhi Superstarz — proved to be his breakthrough.

From struggles to IPL fame

Now playing for LSG after being picked up for ₹30 lakh, Digvesh has made a strong impression in his debut season. While his notebook celebration attracted both fanfare and a fine from the BCCI, his journey continues to inspire aspiring cricketers across the country.