Arshdeep Singh’s name is again in the spotlight after Punjab Kings’ fast bowler attracted fresh criticism for a sharp social media response to a fan. The new backlash arrives while attention remains on an earlier controversy involving Tilak Varma, with the off-field noise around the India pacer showing no sign of settling.
Snapchat screenshot sparks the latest backlash
The latest flare-up began after a screenshot of what was claimed to be a Snapchat conversation circulated online. In the alleged exchange, a supporter—tagging Arshdeep—told him to “remove Punjab” from the franchise name, arguing that the bowler was embarrassing the team’s identity.
Arshdeep replied in a direct and pointed manner. His response reportedly read: “What have you done for Punjab? That you are feeling embarrassed, Singh saab? People who still ask family for chips and cold drinks money are now advising whether to use the name or not?”
The comment quickly spread across social platforms, leading to renewed debate about the pacer’s conduct online and drawing fresh calls for accountability.
Fresh storm follows a Tilak remark row
This controversy comes soon after Arshdeep was accused of making an offensive remark aimed at Tilak Varma. The incident was linked to a video recorded during Punjab’s IPL 2026 build-up ahead of a clash against Mumbai Indians.
In the viral clip, Arshdeep was allegedly heard saying: “Oye Andhere, sunscreen lagaaya?” Many viewers interpreted the line as a reference to Tilak’s skin tone, which then triggered widespread outrage.
Laxman Sivaramakrishnan demands action
Former India spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan was among those who reacted strongly, urging strict punishment for Arshdeep.
- Sivaramakrishnan wrote that Arshdeep should be banned for the season.
- He also stated that the bowler should be paid on a pro rata basis.
- In his post, Sivaramakrishnan said, “Nobody believed me. Everyone mocked and trolled me,” adding that the episode had drawn similar treatment in the past.
Past incidents and BCCI advice resurface
Sivaramakrishnan claimed the Tilak episode brought back memories from his own playing days, when he says he endured racial taunts from teammates.
He recalled a moment from India’s tour of Pakistan in the 1980s, describing how a teammate mocked a birthday cake arranged by Sunil Gavaskar. The teammate’s alleged comment was: “You ordered the right colour cake. Such a dark chocolate cake for a dark boy.”
Beyond the latest controversies, Arshdeep’s social media habits have reportedly faced scrutiny earlier as well. Reports had suggested that the BCCI advised him to stop posting vlogs from team tours and match venues during the IPL.
With two separate incidents now drawing attention in quick succession, the focus on one of India’s prominent T20 bowlers has intensified. For Arshdeep, the off-field chatter is growing louder—and so are calls for action.
