A new controversy has arisen Yuzvendra Chahal A viral clip was allegedly shown on social media Kings of the Punjab spinner vaping during the team’s trip to Hyderabad IPL 2026. Although the authenticity of the video has not been independently verified, the incident has already sparked strong reactions from fans, former cricketers and the cricketing fraternity.
The clip is said to have been taken from the vlog it was linked to Arshdeep Singhapparently shows Chahal sitting between his teammates on the flight and trying to hide his movement. The video quickly went viral on multiple platforms, prompting serious scrutiny, especially since the use and sale of e-cigarettes is banned under current laws in India.
While there has been no official confirmation of disciplinary action against Chahal from either the Punjab Kings or the BCCI, online speculation has run rampant after rumors that Arshdeep has been suspended from creating team vlogs and Chahal has received a stern warning internally.
The controversy comes at a sensitive stage of the IPL season, when franchises are already under pressure to maintain discipline and uphold the league’s code of conduct. Chahal, one of India’s most experienced T20 bowlers, is yet to publicly address the allegations surrounding the viral clip.
Laxman Sivaramakrishnan whips against Yuzvendra Chahal
Former India spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan reacted strongly to the controversy and did not hold back when expressing his disappointment over the alleged incident. Addressing X, Sivaramakrishnan asked why a harsher punishment was not provided if the allegations were true.
“Vape is banned in India. Should be behind bars. What’s the point of having laws and not enforcing them. 25% of match fees are peanuts. But what would the action be if a common man did it?” he wrote in his post on the social network.
Vape is banned in India. He should be behind bars. What is the point of having laws and not enforcing them? 25% of match payouts are peanuts. What would an ordinary person do if they did this?
— Laxman Sivaramakrishnan (@LaxmanSivarama1) May 8, 2026
His remarks instantly caught the attention of the internet and divided opinion among cricket fans. While some supported the ex-spinner’s tough stance that the law should apply equally to public figures, others argued that the matter should not be judged until the clip’s authenticity is officially established.
Also READ: Virat Kohli pays emotional tribute to his former U-19 teammate after his death
BCCI introduces strict anti-vaping measures
Amid growing controversy, the BCCI has already moved to tighten rules on smoking and banned substances during IPL 2026. In new directives to franchises and players, the board has made it clear that smoking will not be allowed in tournament premises.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia reported that vaping-related incidents had been brought to the board’s attention and warned that such actions could be considered violations under Indian law. Under the new directives, the use of vapes, e-cigarettes and related banned substances is completely banned in IPL venues, including dressing rooms, dugouts, training facilities and team hotels.
“Instances of vaping in the dressing room and other restricted areas of the tournament grounds have been brought to BCCI’s attention. It is pertinent to note that vaping and vaping are prohibited under the applicable Indian laws. Anyone engaging in such conduct within the tournament premises is not only in violation of BCCI and IPL rules but may also be subject to action as per the applicable regulations. The use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes and all prohibited substances is strictly prohibited in all IPL tournament venues including the facilities. Saikia said with reference to “India Today” agency.
Also WATCH: IPL 2026 – PBKS star Yuzvendra Chahal allegedly smoked and littered while driving
