Virat Kohli Kavya Maran MS Dhoni. Image Credits: X
The excitement for the upcoming IPL 2026 season is at its peak, but even before the tournament has begun, controversy has taken centre stage. A legal battle between Chennai Super Kings and Sun TV Network has grabbed headlines, and now a video of Virat Kohli has added a new twist to the ongoing drama.
The issue began when Sun TV Network, owned by Kavya Maran, accused the 'Yellow Army' of using copyrighted material in a promotional video.
The video, released to unveil CSK's new jersey for IPL 2026, allegedly included audio tracks, background music, and film dialogues from popular Rajinikanth movies, including Jailer and Coolie.
According to Sun TV Network, the MS-Dhoni-starring team used this content without permission. The promotional clip was widely shared across platforms, gaining massive traction before it was taken down following copyright complaints.
Copyright row deepens as CSK responds
After receiving a warning email on March 1, CSK removed the video and later re-uploaded it with licensed background music.
During a court hearing at the Madras High Court on March 16, CSK stated that it would approach licensing agencies such as Phonographic Performance Limited (PPL) and Novex Communications to legally obtain rights to use such content.
The Chennai-based team also urged Sun TV Network not to interfere in the licensing process. This indicates that the franchise is trying to resolve the matter legally while continuing its promotional campaigns ahead of the season.
Meanwhile, Sun TV Network has maintained that the original use of the content was unauthorized, and the matter remains under legal scrutiny.
Virat Kohli clip used to tease CSK
In an interesting turn, Sun News recently shared a video of Virat Kohli that was originally posted by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The clip shows Virat Kohli preparing for the IPL season with intense practice sessions.
It is worth noting that Virat Kohli himself uploaded this video on his Instagram.
Watch the video here:
The video was reportedly filmed at Lord’s Cricket Ground, where Virat Kohli was seen working on his batting, focusing on aggressive stroke play and experimenting in the nets.
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The clip quickly went viral, with fans interpreting its reposting as a subtle dig at CSK amid the ongoing dispute.
Virat Kohli, who has not played competitive cricket since January, appears determined to return in top form as RCB looks to defend their IPL 2025 title.
Kohli last played in a series against New Zealand; in the 3 innings, he made 240 runs at a strike rate of 105.26 and an average of 80.00. Prior to this, the star player also played against South Africa. In 3 innings, he made 302 runs at a strike rate of 117.05 and an average of 151.
IPL 2026 Set for High-Voltage Start
The IPL 2026 season is set to begin on March 28, with defending champions RCB taking on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). It is important to note that the first phase of the IPL, comprising a total of 20 matches, is scheduled.
One of the most anticipated matches will be the clash between RCB and Chennai Super Kings on April 5 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
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