Celebrating Akash Singh (Image: X)
Akash Singh made a memorable IPL 2026 debut for Lucknow Super Giants, not just because of his crucial wickets against Chennai Super Kings, but also because of a unique celebration that quickly went viral during the encounter at the Ekana Stadium on Friday.The left-hander struck twice during the over, dismissing CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and opener Sanju Samson, before celebrating by pulling out a folded paper figure with a handwritten message.The celebration immediately grabbed attention on social media and telecasts, but not everyone seemed impressed, especially former CSK batsman Ambati Rayudu.Akash Singh’s celebration steals the limelightAkash played his first match of the season and made an immediate impact in his second match. He removed Gaikwad for 13 off 9 balls after the CSK skipper mistimed a shot straight at Nicholas Pooran.Moments after being released, Akash reached into his pocket, unfolded a small nude and showed it to the crowd and cameras. The message read:“Akki on fire – Akash knows how to get wickets in T20.”The celebration quickly became one of the biggest themes of the match.Akash struck again in the sixth over when Samson, who started cautiously, flicked a delivery straight to Mukul Choudhary in the deep. The temporator pulled the same chip again while celebrating with teammates. The double blow reduced CSK from 31 for no loss to 36/2 and handed the momentum firmly to Lucknow.
Rayudu calls celebration ‘garbage’
The celebration quickly became a major talking point online and former CSK batsman Ambati Rayudu couldn’t resist joining in the fun during ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut show.Rather than harsh criticism, Rayudu took a humorous dig at the celebration and jokingly suggested that such “cheats” should not be allowed on the field.“I just think it’s his speech. It might not go down well with a lot of people, but it’s kind of funny and kind of silly,” Rayudu said.
Do you think players should use personal messages or props when celebrating?
“I think they should ban these kinds of pieces, absolute nonsense. I mean, I don’t think you should bring brushes into the examination room,” he added.Also Read: IPL 2026 Playoff Qualifying Scenarios
