Arshdeep Singh has found himself at the centre of a fresh controversy in IPL 2026 after allegations surfaced that the Punjab Kings fast bowler made a racially targeted remark at Mumbai Indians batter Tilak Varma. The episode reportedly occurred following Mumbai Indians’ six-wicket triumph over Punjab Kings in Dharamsala, a result that extended PBKS’ losing run to five matches in a row.
In a clip that has since spread widely across social media, Arshdeep can reportedly be heard addressing Tilak with the line: “Oye Andhere, sunscreen lagaaya?”—a comment that translates roughly to: “Hey dark one, did you apply sunscreen?”
Reactions and calls for action
Former India spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan was among the earliest to respond to the viral video. Drawing on his own experiences from his playing days, Sivaramakrishnan condemned the alleged remark and urged strict consequences for Arshdeep.
- Sivaramakrishnan said that when he previously faced similar taunts about his skin tone, he felt disbelief and mockery from others.
- He called for Arshdeep to be banned for the season and suggested that the punishment should also include financial impact on a pro-rata basis.
- He added that players today should feel the impact of such behaviour “where it hurts the most”, while warning that he expects further trolling if he continues speaking out.
- In a separate post, he argued that Tilak is still early in his career, implying the batter may not yet be able to respond publicly in the same way.
- Sivaramakrishnan also stated that the BCCI could act if the evidence is presented, and he indicated he would be willing to name individuals who racially abused him if action is taken.
He had earlier alleged that some of his former India teammates referred to him as a “dark boy” due to his complexion.
Pakistan tour memory involving Sunil Gavaskar
A report also highlighted another incident from Sivaramakrishnan’s time in the India set-up. During India’s tour of Pakistan, he claimed he was in the squad when then-captain Sunil Gavaskar ordered a cake for him.
What was intended as a celebration, however, reportedly turned into something painful for Sivaramakrishnan, with the moment later tied to racial language. After the Arshdeep video surfaced, those memories reportedly resurfaced for him.
Sivaramakrishnan recalled a teammate saying to Gavaskar that the cake had to be of the “right colour”—describing it as a “dark chocolate cake for a dark boy”, as per the report.
Sivaramakrishnan represented India from 1983 to 1987, featuring in nine Tests and 16 ODIs and taking 41 wickets across those international appearances.
Stay updated with the latest IPL Live Score, IPL news, schedule updates, and the race for the IPL Orange Cap and IPL Purple Cap.
