Yuzvendra Chahal Faces Scrutiny Over Alleged Vaping on IPL Team Flight

Punjab Kings spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is facing scrutiny after a video circulated online appeared to show him vaping on a team flight, seated alongside teammate Shashank Singh. The footage, reportedly taken from a podcast video by Arshdeep Singh, has not been independently verified, and it remains unclear whether Chahal was using an e-cigarette or the device was functional.

Former India spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan reacted strongly, demanding stringent punishment if the act is confirmed. 'Vape is banned in India. Should be behind bars,' Sivaramakrishnan posted on X, criticizing the enforcement of existing laws and referencing a recent 25% match fee fine imposed on Rajasthan Royals' Riyan Parag for a similar incident.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has recently reiterated its ban on vaping across all IPL settings. In a directive issued by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, franchises were reminded that vapes and e-cigarettes are prohibited by Indian law and strictly banned in dressing rooms, team hotels, practice facilities, and other tournament venues.

The BCCI stated it is reviewing the matter, and further action will depend on verification of the video and findings from the franchise. The board is expected to assess compliance with its updated conduct guidelines in the coming days.