IPL 2026 | 'Arshdeep Singh should be banned': Ex-India star fumes over alleged racist remark on Tilak Varma
Punjab Kings bowler Arshdeep Singh faces backlash after a video surfaced showing him allegedly making a racially insensitive remark to Mumbai Indians batter Tilak Varma. Former India spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan strongly condemned the comment, recalling his own experiences with skin tone-based mockery and demanding strict action against Arshdeep.
NEW DELHI: Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh has landed in controversy after allegedly making a racial remark directed at Mumbai Indians batter Tilak Varma. The incident reportedly took place after Mumbai Indians handed Punjab Kings a six-wicket defeat in Dharamsala — PBKS’ fifth consecutive loss in IPL 2026. In a video that has gone viral on social media, Arshdeep can allegedly be heard saying to Tilak, “Oye Andhere, sunscreen lagaaya?
" (Hey dark one, did you apply sunscreen? ). " Former India spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan was among the first to react to the incident.
Recalling his own experiences of facing comments over his skin tone during his playing days, Sivaramakrishnan strongly condemned the remark. After watching the video, the former India cricketer - who played nine Tests and 16 ODIs - called for strict action against Arshdeep and even demanded a ban. “Nobody believed me.
Everyone mocked and trolled me. Arshdeep should be banned this season and should be paid on a pro rata basis. The players today should be hit where it hurts the most.