A viral video on social media allegedly shows the Punjab Kings spinner using an e-cigarette while travelling with the team to Hyderabad.
Punjab Kings spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has landed in the spotlight after a viral social media video allegedly showed him using an e-cigarette during a team flight to Hyderabad ahead of Punjab Kings’ IPL 2026 clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Wednesday, May 8.
The video, which has circulated widely online, appears to show the leg-spinner attempting to conceal the act while seated on the flight with teammates around him. However, India Today could not independently verify the authenticity of the footage or confirm whether Chahal was indeed vaping in the video. It should be noted however, that e-cigarettes are banned in India.
This is not the first time the veteran spinner has found himself at the centre of controversy over smoking-related visuals. Earlier this year, another clip had gone viral in which Chahal was allegedly seen smoking while driving a car. The video also appeared to show him throwing the cigarette onto the road before driving away, drawing criticism from fans on social media.
NOT THE FIRST VAPING INCIDENT
The latest controversy has once again reignited discussions about player conduct and vaping regulations in Indian cricket. While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not yet issued any official statement regarding the viral video involving Chahal, a similar incident earlier in the IPL season had already attracted disciplinary action.
Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag had previously faced action from the BCCI and the IPL Governing Council after he was allegedly spotted using an e-cigarette during Rajasthan Royals’ match against Punjab Kings in Mullanpur. The 24-year-old later admitted to the offence and was handed a reprimand along with a fine amounting to 25 per cent of his match fees.
NO MORE ALCOHOL
Ironically, Chahal had recently spoken publicly about making lifestyle changes to improve his fitness and prolong his career. Ahead of IPL 2026, the 35-year-old revealed that he had stopped consuming alcohol entirely in a bid to stay fitter and set an example for younger cricketers.
“I’ve stopped drinking alcohol, and it’s been more than six months. I am now 35, so I want to be more active and give my 150% for my team. As a senior player, I want people in the IPL to learn something from me,” Chahal had said.
The leg-spinner had also spoken about dealing with injuries last season, including a rib fracture and a knuckle injury that hampered his bowling performances during the knockout stages.
Meanwhile, Punjab Kings are currently struggling for momentum in IPL 2026 after suffering three consecutive defeats. They are next scheduled to face Delhi Capitals at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Monday, May 11.
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