Kagiso Rabada's Smoking Incident Sparks Controversy During IPL 2026

Kagiso Rabada, the fast bowler for Gujarat Titans, has ignited controversy after a video surfaced showing him smoking at the team's hotel during IPL 2026. This incident has overshadowed his impressive on-field performance, raising questions about player discipline. While some fans defend his personal choices, others criticize his public behavior, calling for stricter measures. The BCCI is monitoring the situation, but no official response has been issued yet. As discussions continue on social media, the cricket community awaits clarity on the implications of this incident.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 22, 2026, 13:43 IST

Kagiso Rabada's Controversial Moment

Kagiso Rabada, a fast bowler for the Gujarat Titans (GT), has stirred up a controversy after being filmed smoking at the team's hotel during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Rabada, who joined GT last season, had a modest performance with only two wickets in four matches.

As IPL 2026 approached, the Gujarat Titans retained Rabada for INR 10.75 crore. So far, he has taken 10 wickets in six matches, averaging 22.40 with a strike rate of 9.78. In a recent match against the Mumbai Indians, he played a pivotal role by claiming three wickets during the powerplay, finishing with impressive figures of 3/29 in four overs.

Despite his significant contributions on the field, the emergence of a viral video has shifted attention away from his gameplay, raising concerns about player discipline in this high-stakes tournament.

Viral Video of Rabada Smoking

Kagiso Rabada has once again become the center of attention, but this time for an off-field incident that has rapidly gained traction on social media. In the viral clip, he is seen smoking in the hotel premises, accompanied by several unidentified individuals wearing Gujarat Titans gear. Dressed in casual training clothes, Rabada appeared relaxed during this off-field moment.

While he was smoking, a staff member from the Gujarat Titans was spotted nearby, engaged in conversation as the scene unfolded casually.

KAGISO RABADA IS SMOKING! - Kagiso Rabada was smoking and got caught on camera while doing so. At that moment, Rashid Khan and the rest of the staff came and asked him, 'What is this?'

Previous Controversies and Reactions

Last season, Rabada left the IPL midway due to personal issues, later revealing that he had tested positive for cocaine, resulting in a one-month ban from cricket. He publicly apologized for his actions, expressing regret for disappointing his teammates and fans.

The recent video has ignited a heated debate on social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), where fans have shared mixed reactions. Some defended Rabada's personal choices, while others criticized his public behavior, with calls for stricter measures against such conduct.

Many fans expressed their views, with some arguing that athletes should be role models, while others felt that personal choices should be respected.

Ongoing Discussions and Future Implications

The incident has raised questions about player conduct, especially given Rabada's past issues. While some fans argue that smoking should not be a matter of public concern, others believe it reflects poorly on athletes who are seen as youth icons.

As of now, there has been no official statement from Rabada or the Gujarat Titans regarding the incident. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to keep a close watch on the situation, although no formal actions have been announced yet.