Kagiso Rabada Caught Smoking at GT Team Hotel amid IPL 2026? Video Goes Viral but Is It True? Explained

In a development that has ignited widespread discussion on social media, South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada, currently playing for Gujarat Titans (GT) in the IPL 2026, was captured on camera smoking what appears to be a cigarette.

The footage, which surfaced on Wednesday (April 22) shows a person (likely Rabada) in an open area at the team's hotel premises, accompanied by several GT staff members. It was reportedly filmed from a balcony upstairs, likely after a recent match involving the Titans.

IPL 2026: GT pacer Kagiso Rabada Alleged for Smoking?

The video quickly went viral, with users noting that Afghan spinner Rashid Khan and other support staff approached Rabada. Descriptions across platforms describe the setting as part of the GT team environment, though it is explicitly an open hotel area rather than the dressing room itself. No evidence suggests the incident occurred inside a match-day dressing room.

This is not Rabada's first brush with off-field controversy. During IPL 2025, he tested positive for a recreational drug from an out-of-competition sample taken during the SA20 league. He served a one-month provisional suspension, missing the early part of that season before returning to GT after cooperating with authorities, completing a treatment program, and expressing regret. He has since performed strongly in IPL 2026, claiming 10 wickets in six matches and playing a key role in GT's campaign.

Is the video true?

The incident remains unverified as of now but it edges towards authenticity. MyKhel couldn't come up to a definitive conclusion, but Screengrabs and clips have circulated widely since early April 22, with no denials from Rabada, GT management, or the BCCI as of now.

While some reports note that independent verification of the exact timing and location is pending, the widespread dissemination and matching details across sources make fabrication unlikely.

Cricket rules do not prohibit cigarette smoking, and it carries no anti-doping violation. However, as a high-profile athlete and role model, Rabada's actions have drawn scrutiny, especially given his 2025 history of drug related ban.