PBKS Issues Statement on Rumours Around Players, Tweaks Post After Backlash

Indian IPL team Punjab Kings (PBKS) issued a statement on Tuesday late-night amid growing social media buzz surrounding the team and its players. The franchise urged people, especially ‘sports journalists’, to refrain from spreading any kind of rumours and misinformation on social media that can damage the team’s reputation. However, the team later edited the tweet removing the word ‘sports journalist’ from it.

The buzz started on social media due to a recent incident being caught on camera involving Punjab Kings star spin-baller Yuzvendra Chahal. Yuzi was seen vaping on a flight in a recent video that surfaced online. At the same time, team’s opener Prabhsimran Singh has also become a topic of discussion among the fans due to his fitness and reported weight gain.

“Criticism, banter, and opinions are part of sport. Fake stories and made-up narratives for cheap engagement are not. We urge everyone, especially “sports journalists”, to verify facts before spreading misinformation for attention or traction,” Punjab Kings tweeted on their official X handle. However, the franchise deleted the tweet and later reposted after removing the “Sports Journalists” part to avoid any further controversy.

Preity Zinta, who is the Punjab Kings co-owner, also reacted to the franchise’s statement before it was deleted. She criticized people on social media for their attempt of spreading rumours and misinformation regarding the team and its players that can tarnish their reputation and brand value.

“There’s a difference between criticism and calculated misinformation. Healthy debate around the game is welcome, but the deliberate spread of fake narratives to damage individuals, the team, or the brand should not & will not be taken lightly. I urge everyone – including verified voices and media professionals – to exercise responsibility before amplifying unverified information. Thank you,” Zinta wrote on X.

Punjab Kings (PBKS), is currently at the 4th position on IPL points table with 13 points with remaining 3 games in hand, out of which they need to win 2 games at least to reach 17 points to be able to qualify for the playoffs. They still are one of the firm contenders to reach the playoff. In order to reach the playoff PBKS will have to fight strong teams like – Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Lucknow Super Giants. These matches could make or break their dream to reach the playoffs for the IPL season 2026. 

This article is written by Divya Sharma, a student of Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University, interning with Deccan Chronicle.