The rise of Artificial Intelligence and advanced digital editing has brought a modern menace to the sporting world: highly convincing deepfakes. Following the conclusion of the thrilling IPL 2026 season, a controversial video surfaced on social media targeting Rajasthan Royals‘ breakout prodigy, Vaibhav Suryavanshi. The viral clip deceptively showed the 15-year-old taking a massive swipe at cricket legend Virat Kohli, labeling him both “slow” and “selfish.”
According to the fabricated footage, this controversial response was triggered by a question from legendary cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle, who allegedly asked the youngster if he aspired to become a “king” like Kohli. The video quickly ignited a storm of outrage across social media platforms, with fans reacting to what appeared to be an incredibly arrogant rookie. However, the entire exchange has been proven to be completely fake, shedding light on the dangerous trend of spreading misinformation to generate clicks.
Harsha Bhogle breaks silence after fake Vaibhav Suryavanshi ‘insult’ video spreads online
As the fabricated video began gaining massive traction, Bhogle took to X (formerly Twitter) to vehemently clear the air and protect the young cricketer’s reputation. Bhogle clarified that no such interview ever took place, expressing deep concern over how easily a minor’s character could be assassinated online.
“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. It is cruel and mischievous, especially towards a young kid who has been very respectful in his few interactions,” Bhogle wrote on X.
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. It is cruel and mischievous especially towards a young kid who has been…
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) June 2, 2026
Bhogle’s swift intervention highlighted the darker side of social media algorithms, which often amplify sensationalized, fake content before the truth can catch up. By standing up for Suryavanshi, the veteran broadcaster emphasized the need for accountability and fact-checking in the digital sports landscape.
This is that video 😭😭😭😭😭 https://t.co/UVZaAle5Oz pic.twitter.com/3qZ7Q9jWI0
— Harshit (@knight_17_) June 2, 2026
The Reality: Absolute respect and high praise from Virat Kohli
The viral fake narrative could not be further from reality. In truth, Suryavanshi and Kohli shared a heartwarming and deeply respectful interaction following the IPL 2026 final. Far from the animosity depicted in the deepfake, the IPL’s official social media handles captured a touching moment where the 15-year-old prodigy approached the Royal Challengers Bengaluru icon with folded hands, embodying the traditional values of sportsmanship.
Kohli was seen warmly embracing the youngster, offering a word of appreciation: “Well played, young man.”
Suryavanshi’s respect is well-earned, as the young phenom absolutely dominated the tournament. He concluded his historic IPL 2026 campaign as the leading run-scorer, capturing the coveted Orange Cap with an astonishing 776 runs. Kohli’s genuine admiration for the rising star was further cemented on presentation night. As Suryavanshi walked up to the podium, Kohli turned to his former RCB teammate AB de Villiers and remarked, “This kid is special, he can bat.”
Despite the undeniable mutual admiration between the master and the protégé, malicious humans continue to exploit AI tools to manufacture drama. This incident serves as a stark reminder for cricket enthusiasts globally to verify viral content before rushing to judgment.
