The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not only known for its high-octane cricket but also for the unique celebrations by the players after taking a wicket or scoring a century. From dancing to flying kisses to taking a knee, IPL players have come up with some of the most creative and iconic celebrations over the years. In this article, we will look at the seven most iconic IPL celebrations by players.
- Dwayne Bravo’s Champion Dance:
Dwayne Bravo, the former West Indies all-rounder, is known for his energetic performances both on and off the field. In IPL 2016, Bravo introduced his ‘Champion’ dance celebration, which became an instant hit with fans. The dance, which involves moving the arms and legs in a coordinated rhythm, has now become synonymous with Bravo.
- Virat Kohli’s Jumping Fist Pump:
Virat Kohli, the current Indian captain, is known for his passion and aggression on the field. After taking a wicket or scoring a century, Kohli often celebrates with a jumping fist pump that has become one of his trademark celebrations.
- Chris Gayle’s Gangnam Style Dance:
Chris Gayle, the explosive West Indies opener, is not only known for his big-hitting but also for his dancing skills. In IPL 2013, Gayle introduced his ‘Gangnam Style’ dance celebration, which involved performing the famous dance moves from the popular song by Psy.
- AB de Villiers’ Superman Pose:
AB de Villiers, the former South African captain, is known for his athleticism and acrobatic skills on the field. After taking a catch or scoring a century, de Villiers often celebrates by striking the iconic Superman pose, which involves extending his arms and legs in a flying position.
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s Flying Kiss:
Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the Indian swing bowler, is known for his swing and accuracy. After taking a wicket, Kumar often celebrates by blowing a flying kiss towards the crowd, which has become one of his signature celebrations.
- Hardik Pandya’s Salute:
Hardik Pandya, the Indian all-rounder, is known for his aggressive style of play and his flamboyant celebrations. After taking a wicket or scoring a century, Pandya often celebrates by saluting towards the sky, which is a tribute to his father who served in the Indian Army.
- Kagiso Rabada’s Taking a Knee:
Kagiso Rabada, the South African speedster, is known for his fiery pace and aggressive celebrations. However, in IPL 2020, Rabada introduced a new celebration where he takes a knee as a symbol of solidarity with the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement, which has become a global movement against racial discrimination.
IPL celebrations have become an integral part of the league’s entertainment value, and the players have come up with some of the most iconic celebrations in cricket history. From dancing to flying kisses to taking a knee, these celebrations are a reflection of the players’ personality and style of play, and they have certainly added a new dimension to the game.
