Mumbai: Veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle has clarified that a viral video allegedly showing young cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi insulting Virat Kohli is fake and doctored, urging fans not to believe misleading content circulating on social media.
Viral clip sparks controversy
Following the conclusion of the Indian Premier League 2026, a video began circulating online in which Sooryavanshi was purportedly seen calling Kohli “slow” and “selfish.” The clip also suggested that the remarks were made in response to a question by Harsha Bhogle about whether the youngster aspired to become a “king” like Kohli.
The video quickly gained traction, drawing criticism and sparking debates among cricket fans, many of whom questioned the young player’s attitude.
Harsha Bhogle issues clarification
Responding to the controversy, Harsha Bhogle took to social media platform X to set the record straight. He categorically stated that the video was fabricated and did not reflect reality.
“There is a fake dubbed clip of me and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi doing the rounds on social media. It depicts Vaibhav as being rude and cocky. Neither was that question asked nor was there an answer like that,” Bhogle said.
He further described the clip as “cruel and mischievous,” especially considering that it targets a young cricketer who has shown respect in his interactions so far.
Deepfake concerns in modern cricket
The incident once again highlights the growing concern around the misuse of artificial intelligence tools to create deepfake videos. With technology making it increasingly easy to manipulate audio and visuals, public figures and athletes are becoming more vulnerable to misinformation.
In this case, the doctored clip attempted to create a false narrative involving two prominent figures in Indian cricket, potentially damaging reputations and misleading fans.
Experts have repeatedly warned about the dangers of such content, urging users to verify sources before sharing viral material.
Real interaction tells a different story
Contrary to the claims made in the fake video, Sooryavanshi and Kohli shared a respectful and warm interaction after the IPL 2026 final between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans.
In an official video shared by the league, Kohli was seen congratulating the youngster, saying, “Well played, young man.” Sooryavanshi responded with folded hands, showing humility and respect towards the senior player.
Kohli also praised the teenager’s batting prowess during the season. While speaking to former teammate AB de Villiers, Kohli reportedly remarked, “This kid is special, he can bat.”
Stellar IPL season for Sooryavanshi
Despite the off-field controversy, Sooryavanshi’s performances in IPL 2026 have been widely celebrated. The young batter finished as the tournament’s leading run-scorer, amassing an impressive 776 runs and claiming the Orange Cap.
His consistency and maturity at such a young age have made him one of the most promising talents in Indian cricket. The praise from senior players like Kohli further underlines his potential.
Conclusion
The episode serves as a reminder of the risks posed by misinformation in the digital age. While social media can amplify achievements, it can also spread false narratives rapidly. Harsha Bhogle’s prompt clarification has helped dispel rumours, but the incident underscores the need for vigilance among fans. As Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues his rise in cricket, maintaining focus amid such distractions will be crucial for his growth and success.