Punjab Kings leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has become the centre of attention for the wrong reasons after online claims alleged he was vaping on an aircraft during travel with the franchise. The controversy erupted after social media users circulated screenshots and clips that they said came from Arshdeep Singh’s vlog. Those posts claimed Chahal was using an e-cigarette while the Punjab Kings squad travelled from Ahmedabad to Hyderabad. More allegations followed, with users asserting that the vlog’s original segment was later edited and shortened to remove portions featuring the veteran spinner.
The clips spread widely across social platforms and triggered a heated debate. At the same time, there has been no official response from Chahal or Punjab Kings, and the video material and the accompanying claims have not been independently verified.
One of the most circulated reactions came from a user who criticised the reported behaviour, arguing that vaping on a flight could put others at risk, especially with Shashank Singh and other Punjab Kings players nearby. The post described the conduct as unacceptable and highlighted the potential danger of using an e-cigarette inside an aircraft cabin.
Earlier vaping row in IPL 2026
This latest episode comes after IPL 2026 already saw a separate vaping-related incident. During a match against Punjab Kings, Riyan Parag was reportedly using a vape inside the Rajasthan Royals dressing room. That case led to a penalty, with Parag being fined 25 per cent of his match fee.
As discussion intensified around Chahal’s case, another set of posts cited rules that prohibit vaping, e-cigarettes, and smoking onboard flights. Those comments suggested that despite such regulations, enforcement appears to differ in practice, particularly when high-profile individuals are involved.
Ashwin weighs in on Parag’s incident
Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also commented on vaping controversies, specifically referring to Parag’s earlier incident during an IPL match. Ashwin described the situation as something that could have been avoided and urged younger players to remain alert about their conduct in public settings.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said he believed the entire episode was avoidable, adding that he did not want such matters to trap young players. He also suggested that, in the broader view of everything involved, the problem could have been prevented.
From the standpoint of a senior player, Ashwin stressed the importance of keeping personal decisions in personal spaces. He underlined that while certain actions may be framed as individual choices, they should not be carried out in shared public environments where others could be affected.
Ashwin then offered direct advice to Parag, noting that he was speaking as an elder brother. He said nobody should feel involved in a player’s private life, but whatever happens should remain within personal space. He also pointed out that Parag is not just a participant—he is a captain and a franchise leader, and that role comes with added responsibility.
Ashwin added that Parag’s actions can influence many—ranging from fellow cricketers to young people in India and beyond—making it even more important to behave carefully in visible settings.
