IPL chairman Arun Dhumal urged cricketers to focus on performances instead of social media content during tournaments, amid controversies involving Arshdeep Singh’s vlogs.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru's Virat Kohli during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala on Sunday, May 17, 2026. (Photo: IANS/Raj Kumar)
Amid growing debate around players’ social media activity during the Indian Premier League 2026 season, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal has urged cricketers to focus more on performances on the field rather than creating online content during tournaments.
Dhumal said players should prioritise “realities over reels” and avoid distractions during high-pressure competitions like the IPL.
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“Cricketers should focus on realities rather than reels. Take Virat Kohli, for example – despite having a massive social media following, he remains completely focused on cricket when he is on the field. He has delivered results through his performances, not through reels. I feel players should avoid indulging in making reels while a tournament is underway,” Dhumal said.
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His comments come at a time when the online conduct of several IPL players has come under scrutiny.
Arshdeep Singh recently landed in controversy after reports claimed the Board of Control for Cricket in India had warned him over behind-the-scenes vlog content involving fellow cricketers.
One of Arshdeep’s travel vlogs allegedly featured Yuzvendra Chahal vaping during a team flight to Hyderabad. The clip quickly went viral before the original upload was reportedly edited.
In another social media controversy, a Snapchat video involving Tilak Varma triggered criticism online after Arshdeep jokingly referred to him as “andhere” and suggested he should apply sunscreen, remarks several users interpreted as carrying racist undertones.
The incidents have intensified conversations around player behaviour, privacy, and the increasing role of social media during the IPL season.
Earlier this month, the BCCI reportedly circulated revised operational and security protocols to all 10 franchises, including fresh instructions around player conduct, social media usage, anti-corruption measures, and smoking and vaping restrictions during the tournament.
Dhumal also rubbished speculation surrounding the possibility of the IPL 2026 playoffs being played behind closed doors or rescheduled because of concerns linked to fuel consumption and geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
“We only heard media reports (about the IPL playoffs potentially being held behind closed doors due to the petrol issue). Nothing of that sort is going to happen. The league will continue as scheduled. We will follow government directions, and the BCCI has not received any such directive from the government,” Dhumal said.
The rumours emerged after reports suggested discussions were taking place around reducing travel and limiting logistical expenses during the business end of the tournament.
According to reports, Brijesh Goyal, chairman of the Chamber of Trade & Industry (CTI), had written to Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya requesting authorities to consider measures aimed at reducing fuel usage during the remainder of the tournament.
The suggestions reportedly included conducting matches at fewer venues, reducing air travel, and even staging games without spectators.
However, Dhumal clarified that the BCCI has received no official communication from the government regarding any changes to the playoff schedule.
Also Read: IPL 2026 Playoff tickets: How to book Qualifier and Final tickets online, sale dates announced
The IPL 2026 playoffs are set to begin on May 26, with Qualifier 1 scheduled at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala, followed by the eliminator in New Chandigarh on May 27. Qualifier 2 will also be played in New Chandigarh on May 29 before the final takes place at the Narendra Modi Stadium on May 31.
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