"Time to put the papers away”: Dale Steyn Voices Frustration Over New Trend

"Time to put the papers away”: Dale Steyn Voices Frustration Over New Trend

Summary

IPL’s paper celebration trend sparks debate as Dale Steyn and Ambati Rayudu criticise players like Akash Singh and Urvil Patel.

Time to put the papers away
Image Credit - Twitter

The ongoing Indian Premier League is currently witnessing a new trend among Indian uncapped players, who are showcasing special pieces of paper whenever a bowler takes a wicket or a batter reaches a milestone during a match.

From Abhishek Sharma to Akash Singh: How the Paper Trend Went Viral

This trend was initiated last year by Indian opener Abhishek Sharma, who celebrated scoring a century at Uppal Stadium by displaying a piece of paper. However, he was the only player to do so that season. This year, the trend has gained significant momentum, with several players joining in.

For example, Urvil Patel from Chennai Super Kings, Raghu Sharma from Mumbai Indians, and Akash Singh from Lucknow Super Giants have all participated. Notably, Akash Singh has done it three times in a single match after taking three wickets against CSK.

Raghu Sharma marked the occasion of his first IPL wicket by revealing a slip of paper, while Urvil Patel celebrated his record-breaking half-century against Lucknow Super Giants by displaying a heartfelt note that read, “This is for you, Papa.” In a similar vein, Akash Singh unveiled a chit that said, “#Akki on fire,” after he claimed crucial wickets against CSK.

IPL’s paper celebration trend sparks debate

Experts Believe the Trend Has Gone Too Far

Although this trend started as a way for players to express their beliefs and emotions, it has sparked criticism. Experts like Dale Steyn have suggested it might be time to put the papers away, and former cricketer Ambati Rayudu has stated that the gimmick has gone too far.

This sentiment was highlighted during a recent match when Ian Bishop, part of the commentary team, sarcastically showed a plain white sheet of paper to the cameras after Akash Singh's three displays of the trend.

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