Kagiso Rabada Sparks Controversy with Smoking Incident During IPL 2026

Kagiso Rabada has found himself at the center of controversy once again, this time due to a smoking incident caught on video during IPL 2026. The footage, which shows him smoking with team staff at a hotel, has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with discussions about the responsibilities of professional athletes. Despite the uproar, Rabada continues to excel on the field, having taken ten wickets in six matches for the Gujarat Titans. This incident raises questions about the scrutiny athletes face regarding their off-field behavior, especially in light of Rabada's previous disciplinary issues.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 22, 2026, 13:27 IST

Kagiso Rabada's Smoking Incident Raises Eyebrows

South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is making headlines again, but this time it's not for his impressive performances in the ongoing IPL 2026. A video has surfaced showing him smoking on hotel grounds alongside team staff, which has quickly gone viral on social media, igniting debates among fans and critics alike. The footage, reportedly filmed from a hotel balcony, shows the Gujarat Titans bowler smoking outside. While smoking does not violate any professional standards or anti-doping rules in cricket, the incident has attracted negative attention. Given Rabada's status as a prominent international player and role model, his actions are under scrutiny, especially considering his past disciplinary issues. In 2025, Rabada faced a significant setback when he was provisionally suspended after testing positive for cocaine metabolites during the SA20 league.

Public Reactions on Social Media

The controversy surrounding his past has amplified the scrutiny of even minor off-field incidents like this one. Reactions on social media have been mixed; some fans argue that smoking is a personal choice that shouldn't be overly criticized, while others believe that professional athletes should uphold certain standards both on and off the field. Despite the uproar, Rabada continues to perform well, having taken ten wickets in six matches for the Gujarat Titans in the 2026 IPL, solidifying his role as a key player in the team's bowling lineup.