Arshdeep Singh issues a clarification after being accused of racism

The India National Cricket Team’s Asia Cup 2025 build-up has hit an unexpected storm as young stars Arshdeep Singh and Ishan Kishan are facing a huge backlash on social media for making a color-based jibe at teammate Sai Sudharsan.

A casual Snapchat video featuring Arshdeep Singh and Ishan Kishan has now turned into a massive controversy, as they were seen hilariously mocking Sai Sudharsan’s skin color tone on the public platform. This is now seen as a racism scandal in Indian cricket.

Colorism row hits Indian Cricket just days before Asia Cup 2025

In the viral video, Arshdeep showed the camera on Ishan Kishan, calling him “Bihar ka Ishaan.” Things took an unexpected turn when the Indian wicketkeeper-batter urged the camera to pan towards Sai Sudharsan while calling him “Tamil Nadu Ki Shaan.”

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That’s when a remark, “Camera Saaf Karo, Lips Kahan Hai?” was heard. However, Sai was not initially looking comfortable, but eventually smiled when Arshdeep refocused the camera on the Gujarat Titans opener. However, many online users have slammed Ishan and the left-arm pacer for their remarks for being disrespectful and taking an insensitive dig at Sudharsan’s skin color.

Within hours, the clip spread like wildfire on social media, with fans labeling Ishan and Arshdeep’s shameful act as colorism and racism. Hashtags calling out racism in cricket began trending, as the fans demanded an explanation and even disciplinary action against the duo.

Smooth Racism against Sai Sudharshan by Ishan Kishan and Arshdeep Singh pic.twitter.com/UAbDcmtSWX

— Sawai96 (@Aspirant_9457) August 26, 2025

Arshdeep Singh posts a new Snapchat with Jitesh Sharma after the scandal

This controversy has come at the worst possible time for India, just days before the Asia Cup 2025. But the bowler didn't take time to avoid major controversy by indirectly apologizing.

With the video circulating widely, Arshdeep Singh has shared another video on Snapchat featuring Jitesh Sharma. After introducing Jitesh, the Indian bowler requested the wicketkeeper not to say anything wrong, as his videos would go viral very soon, before bursting into laughter.

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He was referring to a past video that took social media by storm. However, Arshdeep did not apologize, but his action made it clear that he realized his mistake and decided to be disciplined.

Finally Arshdeep Strated hesitating on Snapchat

His Recent Snap with Jitesh Sharma from NCA pic.twitter.com/B6JnAoyn6q

— Sawai96 (@Aspirant_9457) August 29, 2025

Arshdeep Singh makes a strong comeback ahead of the Asia Cup 2025

Notably, Arshdeep and Jitesh are both part of India’s main Asia Cup 2025 squad. The Men in Blue will kick off their campaign against the UAE on September 10 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. India is entering the tournament as the defending champions, having won the 50-over edition in 2023. Sri Lanka had last won the T20 format’s Asia Cup in 2022 at home.

Arshdeep Singh is currently playing in the ongoing Duleep Trophy 2025. It was his first red-ball match after almost a year, with his last game being in October 2024. This was also his return to action after a thumb injury he suffered during a practice match in Beckenham, England, in July.

Many had doubts about his fitness, but he cleared them all with his performance. He bowled 17 overs with good pace and energy and looked completely comfortable. His strong comeback is a big positive for India, as he is ready and in good form ahead of the Asia Cup 2025.