Digvesh Rathi, the young off-spinner from Delhi, has carved a remarkable path from the dusty nets of Delhi University to the glitzy arenas of the Indian Premier League (IPL). His journey, marked by resilience and an unwavering focus on economy, culminated in a breakthrough season with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) under the captaincy of Rishabh Pant.
Five years ago, Rathi was just another hopeful at the open nets organized by the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) probables. Amidst seasoned IPL players, Rathi’s initial deliveries were met with disdain, as one was smashed out of the park, leaving him without a ball to continue. This moment of rejection, however, fueled his determination to never concede a six again.
With no state-level opportunities forthcoming, Rathi turned to the competitive club and corporate cricket circuits in Delhi-NCR. His philosophy was simple yet profound: “Run lagte hai to bulate nahi hai ye dubara, isi liye kheech ke daalta hu” (If I get hit for runs, they don’t call again. That’s why I bowl tight). This approach not only kept him in the game but also honed his skills, making him a sought-after bowler in local matches.
Rathi’s bowling style was heavily influenced by watching videos of Sunil Narine, particularly his carrom ball. However, recognizing the need for more variety, Rathi studied Wanindu Hasaranga and developed a potent googly, which added a new dimension to his bowling arsenal. His unique celebration, inspired by Hasaranga, became a viral sensation, further cementing his place in the cricketing world.
After playing nearly 300 local games and a stint as a net bowler for the Delhi Capitals, Rathi’s big break came at the IPL mega auction in 2024, where Lucknow Super Giants secured his services for Rs 30 lakh. His performance in the Delhi Premier League, where he took 14 wickets in 10 games, played a crucial role in his selection for the Delhi SMAT squad and subsequently, the IPL.
In his debut IPL season, Rathi has been nothing short of sensational, conceding just three sixes in four games, all against a formidable Sunrisers Hyderabad. His ability to maintain a tight economy rate and his cool demeanor under pressure have made him an invaluable asset to LSG, transforming him from a backup to a leading bowler in Rishabh Pant’s squad.
Rathi’s journey from the sidelines of a college ground to the center stage of the IPL is a testament to his hard work, adaptability, and an unyielding desire to succeed. As he continues to evolve, the cricketing world watches eagerly to see how far this young spinner can go.