The IPL 2026 season is already heating up, but not for the reasons fans would hope. A new controversy has erupted after a video allegedly surfaced showing Punjab Kings spinner Yuzvendra Chahal vaping while on a team flight. The clip, which has gone viral across social media, appears to capture Chahal trying to conceal the act while seated next to teammate Shashank Singh. The footage reportedly comes from a podcast video shared by fellow player Arshdeep Singh.
It's important to note that the video's authenticity has not been independently verified, and whether Chahal was actually using an e-cigarette remains unconfirmed. However, the mere suggestion has sparked a firestorm of criticism, with former India spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan leading the charge for stricter consequences.
"Vape is banned in India. Should be behind bars. What is the point in having Laws and not implementing them? 25% of match fees is peanuts. What if a regular person had done this, What would the action be?" Sivaramakrishnan wrote on X, his frustration palpable. He also referenced the recent penalty handed to Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag, who was fined 25% of his match fees earlier in the tournament for vaping inside the dressing room during a match against Punjab Kings.
This latest incident comes hot on the heels of a stern directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia recently circulated a detailed memo to all IPL franchises, reminding them that vapes and electronic cigarettes are prohibited under Indian law and strictly banned across all IPL venues, team hotels, dressing rooms, and practice facilities.
"Instances of vaping within dressing rooms and other restricted areas of tournament venues have been brought to BCCI's attention," Saikia wrote in the official communication. "Accordingly, the use of vapes, e-cigarettes, and all prohibited substances is strictly banned within all IPL premises."
For players and fans alike, this serves as a stark reminder that off-field conduct is under the microscope like never before. As the IPL continues to grow as a global sporting spectacle, the BCCI is making it clear that discipline and adherence to the law are non-negotiable—whether you're a rising star or a seasoned veteran like Chahal.