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Punjab Kings (PBKS) fast bowler Arshdeep Singh has once again come into big controversy and this time the matter has become even bigger when former India spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan has openly warned BCCI about racial abuse in Indian cricket.
The controversy came to light when a viral video showed the Indian fast bowler making comments about his national teammate Tilak Verma during a casual conversation ahead of the IPL 2026 clash between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians in Dharamshala on May 14.
Laxman Sivaramakrishnan warns BCCI amid Arshdeep Singh racism controversy
Social media users accused Arshdeep Singh of making insensitive comments related to Tilak Verma’s skin color during his Snapchat live session ahead of the IPL 2026 clash.
The backlash became even bigger when Sivaramakrishnan threatened to expose former cricketers if the BCCI seriously investigated cases of racial abuse in Indian cricket.
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Arshdeep Singh on target after ‘Oye darke’ comment on Tilak Verma
During the conversation, Arshdeep jokingly called Tilak “Oye Andhere”, referring to his dark complexion. Tilak looked a little awkward but smiled while joining the two.
After this, Arshdeep further teased the MI star and asked her to apply sunscreen so that her complexion does not turn dark. Tilak tried to make light of the comments and responded by saying that he uses Foxtel’s sunscreen.
After this, the Punjab Kings fast bowler pointed the camera towards Naman Dheer and said, “This is the real light of Punjab.” Naman later tried to explain that “Noor” meant shine, while Tilak could only smile.
As soon as the clip went viral online, many fans heavily criticized Arshdeep and called his comments insensitive. Some users also demanded strict punishment against the PBKS fast bowler and said that such racial abuse should not be normalized in modern cricket.
Laxman Sivaramakrishnan threatens BCCI over Arshdeep Singh-Tilak Verma racial abuse controversy
But things took a completely different turn after Laxman Sivaramakrishnan gave a strong reaction on social media. The former India spinner further said that young cricketers often remain silent in these situations as they are still trying to establish themselves in international cricket and do not want their careers to be affected by unnecessary controversies.
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He also urged the BCCI to look into the matter seriously instead of ignoring it as casual fun between two comrades. Sivaramakrishnan warned that if BCCI indeed decides to take action against Arshdeep, he will reveal the names of former India cricketers who racially abused him during his playing days.
The renowned commentator shared the viral clip on his X handle and wrote, “I told you guys. Tilak can’t say anything right now as he is in the early stages of his career. But BCCI, with this proof, can take action. If BCCI takes action, I will take the names of those who racially abused me, if BCCI takes action against them.”
I told you guys. Tilak cannot say anything right now because he is in the initial stages of his career. But BCCI can take action with this evidence
– Laxman Sivaramakrishnan (@LaxmanSivarama1) 15 May 2026
I will take the names of those who racially abused me, if BCCI takes action against them
– Laxman Sivaramakrishnan (@LaxmanSivarama1) 15 May 2026
Responding to another user, Sivaramakrishnan posted,
Nobody believed me. Everyone made fun of me and trolled me. Arshdeep should be banned this season and paid on a proportionate basis. Today players should hit where it hurts the most. I am sure I will be trolled again.
– Laxman Sivaramakrishnan (@LaxmanSivarama1) 15 May 2026
