Sunil Gavaskar's mockery of Akash Singh's chit celebration on live TV termed 'unprofessional'

India legend Sunil Gavaskar is facing criticism from fans for trying to ridicule Lucknow Super Giants fast bowler Akash Singh's paper chit celebration during the team's match against Rajasthan Royals on Tuesday in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026.

Akash had taken three wickets in LSG's previous match against Chennai Super Kings. After every wicket, the left-arm pacer took out a note from his pocket and displayed it to the crowd.

Gavaskar slammed by fans

The celebration was criticised by experts after the match but Gavaskar went a step further. As Akash went for runs against RR, the Indian legend appeared to be mocking the young pacer's celebration during live telecast.

“Where's the chit now, it's in the pocket right? Where is the chit? I like a bit of humility,” Gavaskar said on commentary during the game. “In an over, you get a wicket in maybe one ball. Five balls you are being clobbered. He has given 48 runs in 17 deliveries."

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The young fast bowler did not do a similar celebration after taking the wicket of Yashasvi Jaiswal against RR. Despite the success, he had a tough time as he leaked 54 runs in his three overs.

Nonetheless, fans were not impressed by Gavaskar's comments. The legendary Indian batter was criticised for mocking a young talent. Social media users also asked if he will also tell batters not to celebrate centuries because they can get out on duck in the next game.

"Gavaskar repeatedly asking where is the chit now after Akash Singh is getting hit for boundaries. Not only unprofessional but disgusting behaviour while sitting in commentary box," a fan wrote on X.

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Earlier, Ambati Rayudu had even called for a ban on such celebrations as he termed them "funny and rubbish."

While Akash had a tough night, his bowling partners also could not do much as RR chased down 221 in the final over to hand LSG their ninth loss of the season.