'Should not focus on reels': IPL chairman points to Virat Kohli while warning against distractions

Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Arun Dhumal has urged cricketers to focus more on performances on the field than social media activity during tournaments, saying players should avoid getting distracted by making reels and behind-the-scenes videos during the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The IPL chairman said that while social media is now a major part of modern sport, players must ensure it does not affect their concentration during tournaments like the IPL.





Speaking to news agency IANS, Dhumal cited Virat Kohli as an example of a player who remains focused on cricket despite having a huge online following.

"Cricketers should focus on realities rather than reels. 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," IPL chairman Arun Dhumal told IANS.

Dhumal’s comments come at a time when players’ social media activity during IPL 2026 has come under attention.

Arshdeep Singh was recently involved in controversy after reports claimed that the BCCI had warned him regarding behind-the-scenes vlog content involving fellow players.

One of Arshdeep’s travel vlogs allegedly showed Yuzvendra Chahal vaping during a team flight to Hyderabad. Clips from the video spread widely on social media before the original upload was reportedly edited.

In another instance, a Snapchat video featuring Tilak Varma drew criticism online. In the clip, Arshdeep jokingly referred to Tilak as "andhere" and suggested he should apply sunscreen. Several users criticised the remarks, saying they carried racist undertones.

The incidents have again brought focus on player conduct and online behaviour during the IPL season.

Earlier this month, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly sent fresh operational and security guidelines to all 10 IPL franchises. The advisory included instructions on social media conduct, anti-corruption protocols, smoking and vaping restrictions, and player behaviour during the tournament.

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