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Akash Singh and Abhishek Sharma (Source: AFP)
The handwritten note celebration trend in the IPL has once again gained limelight after Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) pacer Akash Singh pulled out a paper message during the IPL 2026 clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on May 15.
The trend became popular during IPL 2025, when Abhishek Sharma celebrated his century for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Since then, several cricketers have copied the idea in different ways.
How did Akash Singh celebrate during LSG vs CSK clash?
During Match 59 of IPL 2026 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, Akash Singh delivered a stunning spell against CSK in his very first appearance of the season. The left-arm pacer dismissed CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson and Urvil Patel.
After taking the wicket of the three players, Akash Singh celebrated by taking out a folded note from his pocket. The message written on it read - “#Akki on fire – Akash knows how to take wickets in T20 game.”
While the act quickly went viral on social media, it also triggered criticism from former players.
Dale Steyn And Ambati Rayudu slam the trend
However, not everyone enjoyed Akash's celebration. Former South African fast bowler Dale Steyn strongly criticised the growing trend and suggested that it had already become outdated.
Also Read: Kartik Sharma Silences Ekana Minutes After Akash Singh Mocks CSK Batters
Reacting on X shortly after the match, Dale Steyn wrote - "Time to put the papers away. It ain’t trending no more. Actually, to be honest, never really was."
Former CSK batter Ambati Rayudu also joined the discussion during ESPNcricinfo's TimeOut show. Ambati Rayudu questioned whether players should even be carrying such notes onto the field.
“I just think that’s his manifestation, it may not go down well with a lot of people, but it’s kind of funny and a bit of rubbish,” said Rayudu.
“I think they should ban this chit business, absolute nonsense. I don’t think they’re supposed to bring chits anyway.
Akash Singh explains the reason behind celebration
Despite the backlash, Akash Singh later clarified that there was no hidden meaning behind his actions. According to the LSG pacer, the note was simply a source of self-motivation during high-pressure moments in the game.
"It just gives me motivation. There is no reason behind it. Whatever motivates me during the game, I’ll keep backing it,” Akash said after the match.
Who is Akash Singh?
Akash Singh is a left-arm medium-fast bowler from Bharatpur, Rajasthan. He first came into the spotlight during the 2020 ICC U-19 World Cup and later made his IPL debut for Rajasthan Royals in 2021.
He later represented Chennai Super Kings in 2023 before being picked by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹30 lakh ahead of IPL 2025. It is important to mention that the Rishabh Pant-led side retained him before the IPL 2026 season.
So far in his IPL career (for RR, CSK and LSG), Akash has played 11 matches and picked up 12 wickets at an economy rate of 9.22. Across domestic cricket, he has also featured in 15 first-class matches and 30 T20 games.
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