As the glitz of IPL 2026 settles with Royal Challengers Bengaluru lifting their second consecutive title, a different conversation is taking centre stage: the balance between social media engagement and on-field performance.
Amid growing scrutiny over players’ online conduct during the tournament, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal has issued a clear message to cricketers — follow Virat Kohli’s example and focus on the game, not on creating reels.
‘Realidades over reels’
Speaking to IANS, Dhumal emphasised that while social media is now an integral part of modern sport, it should not become a distraction during high-pressure competitions like the IPL.
“Cricketers should focus on realities rather than reels,” Dhumal said. “Take Virat Kohli, for example — despite having a massive social media following, he remains completely focused on cricket when he is on the field. He has delivered results through his performances, not through reels. I feel players should avoid indulging in making reels while a tournament is underway.”
The IPL chairman’s remarks come at a time when the online activity of several players has come under intense public scrutiny.
The Arshdeep Singh controversy
The most prominent case involves Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh, who found himself at the centre of a social media storm during IPL 2026.
Arshdeep, known for his lighthearted post-series vlogs, deleted over 200 Instagram posts — including a wildly popular reel featuring Virat Kohli that had amassed over 150 million views .
The digital cleanup came amid multiple controversies. Arshdeep faced backlash over an alleged colourist remark directed at teammate Tilak Varma, which drew sharp criticism from former cricketers . He also endured a difficult on-field campaign, picking up 14 wickets but leaking runs at an expensive economy rate of 10.21 as Punjab Kings failed to secure a playoff berth .
Reports also suggested that the BCCI had warned players against excessive content creation during active tournaments. While Arshdeep never publicly explained the purge, fans and analysts interpreted it as an attempt to refocus on cricket amid mounting criticism .
Kohli leads by example
Dhumal’s praise for Kohli was immediately validated on the field. In the IPL 2026 final against Gujarat Titans, Kohli remained unbeaten on 75 off 42 balls, hitting nine fours and three sixes, including his fastest IPL half-century (25 balls) .
The knock was not without controversy — Kohli was given out on the final delivery of the 17th over when Shubman Gill claimed a catch, but the decision was overturned after the third umpire ruled the ball had touched the ground . Kohli went on to finish the chase in style, hitting a match-winning six to seal RCB’s second consecutive title .
A delicate balance
The debate over player content creation has become increasingly relevant as social media continues to blur the lines between sport and entertainment. While engaging content helps build fan connections and grow the game’s reach, the BCCI and IPL authorities are concerned that excessive behind-the-scenes videos and reels during tournaments could become a distraction — or worse, expose sensitive team information.
Dhumal’s comments serve as a reminder that, for all the glamour of the IPL, the ultimate currency remains performance on the field. And in that regard, Virat Kohli continues to set the standard.
