IPL 2026 has witnessed several unique celebrations this season, but the increasingly popular “paper-note celebration” trend has now sparked criticism. The discussion intensified during the high-voltage clash between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where LSG pacer Akash Singh pulled out a handwritten note after dismissing his third batter of the evening.
While the celebration quickly went viral across social media platforms, Dale Steyn appeared far from impressed. The legendary fast bowler took to social media platform X and bluntly expressed his views on the trend, suggesting that the gimmick had already run its course.
Dale Steyn reacts strongly to IPL’s paper-note celebration craze
Without directly naming any player or franchise, Steyn shared a sharp post criticizing the repeated use of paper-note celebrations in the tournament. The post immediately grabbed attention among cricket fans, especially because the paper-note celebration has become a recurring feature in IPL over the last two seasons. What began as a heartfelt gesture has now evolved into a trend copied by several players across franchises.
Time to put the papers away.
It ain’t trending no more.Actually, to be honest, never really was.
— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) May 15, 2026
The celebration trend first became popular during the last season when Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) opener Abhishek Sharma revealed a note dedicated to the “Orange Army” after scoring a century. Since then, several players have copied the gesture in different matches.
Akash Singh’s celebration grabs attention during LSG vs CSK clash
The latest instance came during Friday’s IPL 2026 contest between LSG and CSK in Lucknow. Playing his first game of the season, Akash delivered a dream performance with the ball. The left-arm pacer dismissed CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad in his very first over before also removing Sanju Samson and Urvil Patel to complete a memorable three-wicket haul.
After taking his third wicket, Akash pulled out a paper note that read “#Akki on fire – Akash knows how to take wickets in T20 game.” Akash later clarified that the gesture was purely personal and intended as self-motivation rather than any message to critics or opponents.
LSG outclass CSK in crucial IPL 2026 clash
Meanwhile, LSG registered a commanding seven-wicket victory over CSK in the contest. Chennai posted a competitive 187/5, largely powered by Kartik Sharma’s composed 71-run knock. However, LSG openers Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis completely dismantled the chase with a stunning 135-run partnership. Marsh smashed a breathtaking 90, while Inglis contributed 36, helping Lucknow chase down the target comfortably with 20 balls remaining.
The defeat left CSK stuck on 12 points in 12 games, severely denting their playoff aspirations. The five-time champions now need victories in both remaining matches and favourable results elsewhere to stay alive in the race for the IPL 2026 playoffs.
