Punjab Kings fast bowler Arshdeep Singh has once again found himself at the center of social media criticism after a video allegedly featuring him making fun of teammate Priyansh Arya surfaced online during the ongoing IPL 2026 season.
The controversy comes just days after the Indian pacer faced backlash over another viral clip involving Mumbai Indians batter Tilak Varma. The latest incident has triggered mixed reactions among cricket fans, with many questioning whether senior players should avoid making jokes that could make younger teammates uncomfortable.
Viral Bus Video Sparks Debate
The latest controversy began after a video reportedly shared through a Snapchat story started circulating across social media platforms. The clip appears to have been recorded inside the Punjab Kings team bus while the squad was in Lucknow ahead of their final IPL 2026 league-stage match against Lucknow Super Giants.
In the video, young Punjab Kings batter Priyansh Arya can be seen sitting at the back of the bus alongside teammate Harpreet Brar. Although Arshdeep Singh does not appear on camera, several fans claimed they recognized his voice in the background.
According to viewers, a comment was made toward Priyansh Arya before laughter followed from players nearby. Harpreet Brar was also seen reacting during the moment. Meanwhile, Priyansh appeared to stay focused on his phone conversation and avoided looking directly at the camera.
The clip quickly spread online, leading to divided opinions among cricket supporters.
Arshdeep Singh’s Snapchat story on Priyansh Arya.
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 22, 2026
– Priyansh visibly looking uncomfortable. pic.twitter.com/TJCHY32Gi5
Fans Divided Over Arshdeep Singh’s Conduct
Social media users reacted strongly after the video gained traction. Some fans defended the interaction, describing it as harmless locker-room banter between teammates. Others, however, felt the situation crossed a line, especially because Priyansh Arya appeared uncomfortable in the clip.
Several users argued that senior players should be more careful about public behavior, particularly in an era where short viral clips can easily shape public perception. Some supporters also pointed out that young cricketers often face pressure adapting to the IPL environment and should not become targets of unnecessary jokes.
At the same time, a section of fans criticized people for overanalyzing team interactions without full context. They maintained that dressing-room humor is common in professional sports and that isolated clips can sometimes create misleading narratives.
Earlier Controversy Involving Tilak Varma
This is not the first time Arshdeep Singh has faced criticism during IPL 2026. Earlier in the season, another video involving Mumbai Indians batter Tilak Varma sparked outrage online.
In that clip, Arshdeep was accused of making a racially insensitive remark while referring to Tilak Varma. The incident drew heavy criticism across social media, with many fans calling for greater awareness regarding language and conduct among public figures.
Although the controversy eventually cooled down, the latest viral video has once again brought the Punjab Kings pacer under scrutiny.
Punjab Kings Under Pressure in IPL 2026
The controversy arrives at a difficult time for Punjab Kings, whose IPL 2026 playoff hopes remain uncertain heading into the final stage of the league campaign.
Punjab Kings are currently battling for a place in the playoffs and need a convincing victory against Lucknow Super Giants in their final league fixture. Even then, the team may still depend on results from other matches to qualify.
The franchise had started the season strongly, winning six of their first seven matches and emerging as one of the tournament favorites. However, their momentum faded dramatically in the second half of the campaign.
After 13 matches, Punjab Kings have recorded six wins and six defeats, while one match was washed out due to rain. With 13 points, the team currently sits fifth on the IPL 2026 points table and remains in a must-win situation.
Despite the off-field controversies surrounding Arshdeep Singh, Punjab Kings will hope their players can stay focused as the franchise attempts to keep its playoff dream alive.
