In a troubling turn of events during IPL 2026, Punjab Kings fast bowler Arshdeep Singh has found himself at the center of a major controversy. A viral video appears to show him making a racially insensitive comment to Mumbai Indians' young batter Tilak Varma following MI's six-wicket victory over PBKS in Dharamsala—a loss that marked Punjab's fifth consecutive defeat this season.
The footage, which has sparked outrage across social media, allegedly captures Arshdeep saying to Tilak, "Oye Andhere, sunscreen lagaaya?" (Hey dark one, did you apply sunscreen?). The remark has drawn sharp criticism from former India spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan, who didn't hold back in his response.
Sivaramakrishnan, who played nine Tests and 16 ODIs for India, took to X (formerly Twitter) to demand severe punishment, including a season-long ban for Arshdeep. "Nobody believed me. Everyone mocked and trolled me. Arshdeep should be banned this season and should be paid on a pro rata basis. The players today should be hit where it hurts the most. I am sure I would be trolled again," he wrote.
The former cricketer's reaction stems from painful personal experience. He has previously spoken about being called a "dark boy" by some of his former India teammates. In a recent interview with The Indian Express, Sivaramakrishnan recalled a particularly hurtful incident during India's tour of Pakistan, when then-captain Sunil Gavaskar ordered a cake for him—but what was meant to be a celebration turned into a painful memory that still lingers.
Sivaramakrishnan emphasized that Tilak, being early in his career, may feel unable to speak out. "I told you guys. Tilak can't say anything now as he is in early part of his career. But BCCI with this proof can take action," he posted. He even went further, stating, "If BCCI takes action, I will name people who racially abused me if BCCI will take action against them."
This incident comes at a time when cricket continues to grapple with issues of racial insensitivity, and the sports community is watching closely to see how the BCCI will respond to what could be a defining moment for player conduct in the league.