Punjab Kings fast bowler Arshdeep Singh has kept a steady head amid online backlash after comments from a viral clip involving Tilak Varma. Punjab Kings head of sports science Andrew Leipus said the criticism has not shifted the pacer’s mindset as the team fights for survival in the playoff race.
PBKS enter their next phase under intense pressure, having suffered five consecutive defeats. With their postseason hopes hanging by a thread, the franchise needs outright victories in their remaining fixtures against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Lucknow Super Giants to stay in contention.
Quick facts
- Arshdeep Singh faced social media criticism after a viral video involving Tilak Varma.
- Punjab Kings have lost five straight matches and are battling to keep playoff chances alive.
- PBKS must win remaining games versus Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Lucknow Super Giants.
- Andrew Leipus said the criticism has not affected Arshdeep’s behaviour or confidence.
- Leipus noted Arshdeep remains a leadership presence in the dressing room and on game days.
The online storm around Arshdeep began after a short clip surfaced in which he called out Tilak Varma, saying, “Oye andhere.” Some supporters accused the left-arm seamer of “casual racism,” sparking widespread debate across social platforms.
A day later, Arshdeep was drawn into another round of attention when he replied to a fan who urged PBKS to drop “Punjab” from the team name. The pacer responded that he would not take guidance from people who, in his view, still rely on money taken from their own family to buy chips and cold drinks.
Leipus on Arshdeep’s mindset and form
Ahead of PBKS’ match against RCB, Leipus played down the effect of the noise on Arshdeep. In the pre-match build-up, he said he does not actively follow social media, and that the chatter happening off-field has not changed how the bowler approaches his work.
Leipus described Arshdeep’s temperament as consistent—“a flat line,” in his words—emphasising that the pacer continues to give his best when the team needs it. He also suggested that fluctuations in performance could have more to do with physical factors and workload considerations than anything happening online.
He further added that Arshdeep’s dressing-room conduct remains the same. According to Leipus, the bowler is still loud and energetic in the group environment, but remains calm overall, with no noticeable rise or drop in attitude.
Leipus also highlighted Arshdeep’s role as a leader within the squad. He said the fast bowler stays highly confident and positive, leading from the front both on and off the field, and remains engaged with teammates rather than separating himself.
With PBKS carrying pressure from their recent results, Leipus felt that Arshdeep and the group’s steadiness is helping the side manage anxiety. He pointed to a young squad learning to absorb the tension without letting it affect behaviour, calling the calm at the top and the lack of emotional fluctuation a positive sign.
