From ‘Andhere’ Remark To Financial Jabs: Top 3 Controversies Of Arshdeep Singh In IPL 2026

Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh has found himself at the centre of multiple controversies during the IPL 2026 season, with a series of off-field incidents drawing sharp criticism from fans, former players and cricket experts alike. From alleged insensitive remarks to social media backlash and disciplinary action from his own franchise, the episodes have cast a shadow over his otherwise important role in the team.

With multiple incidents unfolding in quick succession, Arshdeep Singh's IPL 2026 campaign has been marked as much by off-field controversies as by on-field performances. While the young pacer remains a key figure for Punjab Kings, these episodes underline the growing importance of professionalism and responsibility in the age of constant social media scrutiny.

Here are the top three controversies that have shrouded Arshdeep Singh in this season of IPL:

1. The Racist 'Andhere' Remark On Tilak Verma

The most serious controversy emerged from a viral behind-the-scenes clip recorded ahead of the Punjab Kings' clash against the Mumbai Indians in Dharamshala. In the video, Arshdeep was allegedly heard calling out to MI batter Tilak Varma with the remark, "Oye Andhere, sunscreen lagaaya?" The comment soon spread like wildfire and was widely interpreted as having a racist undertone.

The video quickly spread across social media platforms, triggering a fierce debate. While a section of fans dismissed it as harmless dressing-room banter, a much larger section condemned the comment as insensitive and inappropriate, especially in a professional sporting environment.

The backlash intensified when former India spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan publicly criticised the incident, calling it an example of casual discrimination that should not be tolerated. He even suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India consider handing Arshdeep a seasonal ban to send a strong message.
Further fuelling the controversy, social media users resurfaced older Snapchat clips in which Arshdeep allegedly made similar remarks about Sai Sudharsan of the Gujarat Titans and youngster Sakib Hussain. The recurrence of such behaviour led to increased scrutiny and calls for stricter accountability.

2. Financial Jab At Fans

In another incident, Arshdeep drew criticism for a social media post that appeared to mock fans amid the Punjab Kings' poor run of form. Following five consecutive losses, frustrated supporters took to social media to vent their disappointment, with some even suggesting changes to the team's identity. Responding on Snapchat, Arshdeep wrote, "People who still ask their parents for money for drinks and chips are now advising us on what to do."

The remark did not go down well with the fanbase. Many supporters accused the pacer of arrogance and insensitivity, arguing that he was belittling the very audience that backs the team through highs and lows. Critics pointed out that, as a retained player reportedly earning a significant salary, Arshdeep's comments reflected poorly on his public image.
The backlash was swift, with users across platforms questioning his attitude and professionalism. The episode added to the growing list of concerns regarding his off-field conduct during the season.

3. Vaping Video Controversy

Arshdeep's troubles deepened with a controversy stemming from his popular behind-the-scenes vlogs. The left-arm pacer had been actively sharing travel and dressing-room content on YouTube and Snapchat, giving fans a glimpse into team life.

However, one such video, reportedly filmed during a flight from Ahmedabad to Hyderabad, sparked major controversy after viewers claimed to spot teammate Yuzvendra Chahal appearing to vape inside the aircraft.

The clip quickly went viral, raising serious questions about discipline and adherence to flight safety regulations. What may have initially seemed like casual content soon escalated into a national talking point. In response, the Punjab Kings management took swift action, reportedly banning Arshdeep from creating vlogs for the remainder of the season. The decision was aimed at preventing further leaks of internal team environments and avoiding potential controversies that could harm the franchise's reputation.