A viral video allegedly featuring Yuzvendra Chahal has triggered a fresh wave of controversy online, with netizens accusing the Indian spinner of smoking and littering in public.
The clip, widely circulated on X and Instagram, appears to capture a man resembling Chahal inside a luxury car, taking a drag from a cigarette before casually tossing it onto the road.
The footage has drawn sharp criticism from fans as well as civic groups, many of whom have questioned the responsibility of public figures and role models. However, the authenticity of the video has not been independently verified, and key details, including when and where it was recorded, remain unclear. As of now, neither Chahal nor his representatives have issued an official statement addressing the allegations.
The controversy comes at a time when the cricketer is actively participating in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026. Currently representing Punjab Kings, Chahal has had a steady run so far this season, picking up three wickets in his first three matches.
“I’ve stopped drinking alcohol, and it’s been more than six months. I am now 35, so I want to be more active and give my 150% for my team. As a senior player, I want people in the IPL to learn something from me," Chahal had said on AB de Villiers’ YouTube channel ahead of the IPL season.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the clip, the video has rapidly gained traction, accumulating thousands of views and sparking heated debate.
“What the hell was his craving for that damn cigarette that he lit up and sat there right in the car?" wrote one user.
“No wonder he is ignored by Indian side," another commented.
“Is he a sports person, wht kind of example he’s setting fr upcoming generation. One bad fish can spoil the entire pond, such ppl does not deserve any opportunity in such a big platform like Ipl otherwise its not far tht IPl will also become similar to PPL. He’s good fr gully ckt," a third user said.
“Yuzvendra Chahal really out here choosing his own path of destruction. Talent got him fame, but habits like this slowly ruin the respect," a fourth said.