BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla with Arshdeep Singh. Image Credts: ChatGPT
The IPL 2026 season has entered its crucial stage, but controversies around players continue to dominate headlines. This time, Arshdeep Singh has landed in trouble after a viral social media clip sparked racial insensitivity towards Tilak Varma.
Arshdeep Singh, known for staying active on social media with vlogs, reels, and behind-the-scenes videos, is now facing criticism after a Snapchat video from Dharamsala went viral.
The incident took place ahead of the IPL 2026 clash between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians at the HPCA Stadium on May 14.
The controversy comes at a time when the BCCI has already tightened rules regarding players’ social media activities during the tournament. However, after the controversy, Arshdeep Singh’s ban has been demanded.
What did Arshdeep Singh say to Tilak Varma?
The viral video featured Arshdeep Singh alongside Mumbai Indians players Tilak Varma and Naman Dhir during a casual interaction. In the clip, Arshdeep can allegedly be heard saying to Tilak, "Oye Andhere, sunscreen lagaaya?" which roughly translates to, "Hey dark one, did you apply sunscreen?".
The comment quickly triggered backlash online, with many users accusing the Punjab Kings pacer of mocking Tilak Varma’s skin tone. Many described the remark as racially insensitive and inappropriate.
Watch the video here:
It is important to mention that neither Arshdeep Singh nor the BCCI had issued an official statement on the matter. Tilak Varma also did not publicly react to the controversy.
Also Read: Arshdeep Singh, Axar Patel Get In Serious Discussion After PBKS Defeat vs DC
Former Cricketer calls for strict action against Arshdeep Singh
Former India player Laxman Sivaramakrishnan strongly criticised Arshdeep after the video surfaced online. Taking to X, Sivaramakrishnan demanded strict punishment and even called for a season-long suspension for the Punjab Kings pacer.
He argued that racism and colour-based comments should never be dismissed as jokes in professional cricket.
“Nobody believed me. Everyone mocked and trolled me. Arshdeep should be banned this season and should be paid on a pro rata basis. The players today should be hit where it hurts the most. I am sure I would be trolled again," Sivaramakrishnan posted on X.
Earlier, Sivaramakrishnan also had referred to his own experiences in cricket, claiming he had faced similar comments during his playing days.
According to him, one of his former teammates had allegedly referred to him as ‘dark boy,’ but his complaints were ignored at the time.
Arshdeep Singh's IPL 2026 performance
Arshdeep is one of Punjab Kings’ leading bowlers in IPL; however, his season has been inconsistent overall. The left-arm pacer achieved a major milestone by becoming the first player to take 100 IPL wickets for Punjab Kings.
He reached the landmark during Punjab Kings’ match against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on April 16. With that achievement, Arshdeep joined an elite list of Indian left-arm fast bowlers such as Zaheer Khan and Ashish Nehra to cross 100 IPL wickets.
In 12 matches during IPL 2026, Arshdeep Singh has taken 13 wickets at an economy rate of 9.69. Across his IPL career, he has now claimed 110 wickets in 94 matches with an economy rate of 9.09.
Also Read: IPL 2026 Best Captains' List Out! Rajat Patidar, Pat Cummins Denied Top Spot
