A bizarre and almost surreal moment from the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) IPL clash has triggered a wave of online speculation after fans linked a viral “lemon trick” to alleged black magic claims.
The incident, captured at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, showed a spectator performing a ritual-like gesture involving lemons just before CSK batter Shivam Dube was set to face SRH pacer Sakib Hussain. The clip quickly spread across social media, with fans debating whether it was harmless superstition or something more unusual.
The situation escalated further after an unverified letter, allegedly linked to CSK, began circulating online and referencing “black magic” practices during the match. However, the authenticity of the document has not been confirmed by any official IPL authority or franchise.
Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi responded to the controversy on social media, dismissing the letter as fake but adding a cryptic note suggesting that similar incidents may have occurred in the past.
“Seems fake this time. But one team owner did indulge in this type of practice,” Modi posted on X, recalling earlier allegations from previous seasons. He also claimed he had raised concerns in the past with what he described as “concrete proof,” and hinted at revealing more in a future film or series project.
Seems fake this time. But one team owner did indulge in this type of practice
— Lalit Kumar Modi (@LalitKModi) April 19, 2026
As the debate continues online, there has been no official statement from IPL governing bodies or the franchises involved regarding either the viral video or the alleged letter.
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On the field, SRH managed to hold their nerve in a tense contest, defending their total of 195 to beat CSK by 10 runs after a strong powerplay start from the five-time champions.
SRH will now face Delhi Capitals in their next fixture, while CSK are set for a high-profile clash against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.