Riyan Parag Vaping Row: Yuzvendra Chahal, AB de Villiers and Others in Smoking Scandal

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag's viral vaping clip during IPL 2026 has reignited debate around player discipline and professional conduct in cricket, bringing back memories of several similar smoking and vaping incidents involving high-profile cricketers over the years.

The latest controversy involving Parag has once again raised questions about dressing-room rules, league regulations, and how cricket authorities respond to such incidents.

Riyan Parag vaping controversy sparks fresh debate

Riyan Parag found himself at the centre of controversy after broadcast visuals appeared to show him vaping inside the Rajasthan Royals dressing room during their IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings.

The moment occurred during the 16th over of Rajasthan Royals' run chase in Mullanpur. Parag was seen seated alongside teammates Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal when the footage captured what appeared to be him using a vape device.

The clip quickly went viral on social media, triggering widespread criticism and raising concerns about potential rule violations.

The controversy is particularly significant because smoking and vaping are prohibited in dressing rooms and stadium premises except in designated areas. Additionally, e-cigarettes and vaping devices are banned in India under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA), 2019.

Parag's case remains under scrutiny, and any potential disciplinary action from IPL authorities is yet to be officially confirmed.

Kagiso Rabada video adds to IPL 2026 controversies

Parag's incident is not the only controversy involving smoking-related visuals this season.

Earlier in IPL 2026, Gujarat Titans pacer Kagiso Rabada was drawn into controversy after a video surfaced allegedly showing him smoking on a hotel balcony. Although the incident did not take place inside stadium premises, it sparked conversations about professionalism and public image.

The video circulated widely online and added to ongoing debates about player behaviour outside match venues.

Yuzvendra Chahal criticised after viral smoking clip

Another recent controversy involved spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who faced criticism after a viral video appeared to show him smoking while driving.

Social media reactions focused not only on the smoking but also on allegations that he discarded the cigarette improperly, drawing criticism over civic responsibility.

While the incident did not directly involve match venues, it contributed to the growing conversation around athlete conduct and public perception.

AB de Villiers vaping moment previously went viral

Former South Africa star AB de Villiers also found himself in the spotlight when cameras captured him vaping during an SA20 match earlier this year.

The footage showed him seated in the VIP stands before he appeared startled upon noticing himself on the big screen. Although the moment was brief, it quickly circulated online and sparked discussion among fans.

This incident highlighted how even retired players remain under scrutiny when appearing in public cricket settings.

Earlier cricket smoking incidents that drew attention

Smoking-related controversies in cricket date back several years, with multiple international players openly admitting or being caught in similar situations.

Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum once revealed that he smoked in a toilet during the 2015 World Cup semi-final against South Africa.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes also admitted to smoking inside the Lord's washroom during the 2019 World Cup final.

In franchise cricket, Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim was spotted smoking in the dressing room during the Pakistan Super League final in 2024, while Afghanistan batter Mohammad Shahzad was seen smoking on the field during a Bangladesh Premier League match in 2022.

Why the Riyan Parag vaping incident stands out

While smoking-related controversies have occurred before, Riyan Parag's case stands out because it allegedly happened inside a dressing room during a live IPL match - a strictly regulated environment.

The fact that the moment was captured during an official broadcast has intensified scrutiny and increased pressure on IPL authorities to respond.

It also comes at a time when the league has been emphasizing discipline and professionalism, making the outcome of the investigation particularly important.

Bigger conversation around discipline and accountability

The repeated emergence of smoking and vaping controversies in cricket highlights the growing scrutiny faced by modern athletes, especially in high-profile leagues like the IPL.

With social media amplifying even brief moments caught on camera, incidents that might once have gone unnoticed now quickly become global talking points.

As the IPL continues to expand its global reach, maintaining discipline and setting clear behavioural standards will remain crucial to preserving the league's reputation.