Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi has sparked fresh controversy by claiming that “some” franchises have previously resorted to unusual methods, including alleged black magic, to gain an edge in matches. The debate gained traction after a viral video from the game at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium showed a fan performing a ‘lemon trick’ moments before Shivam Dube faced SRH pacer, Sakib Hussain.
The video quickly went viral on social media, followed by an unverified complaint letter allegedly linked to the Chennai Super Kings. While Modi initially reacted with curiosity and even humour, he later dismissed the circulating letter as fake.
“Seems fake this time. But one team owner did indulge in this type of practice,” Lalit Modi wrote on X, hinting at past incidents.
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He further claimed that such incidents are not entirely new to the IPL.
“I remember I posted some team owner doing this to the opposing team,” he said. “I even alerted the opposing team owners back in the 2011 season when I had concrete proof.”
Seems fake this time. But one team owner did indulge in this type of practice
— Lalit Kumar Modi (@LalitKModi) April 19, 2026
View this post on Instagram
Modi also suggested that further revelations could emerge in the future through a planned film or series documenting these behind-the-scenes controversies. However, there has been no official confirmation from the IPL governing body or any franchise regarding these claims, keeping the issue in the realm of speculation.
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On the field, the match itself delivered high drama. Chasing 195, Chennai Super Kings got off to a flying start, racing to 76 in the powerplay. However, Sunrisers Hyderabad staged a strong comeback with disciplined bowling, shifting the momentum at a crucial stage. Despite a late fightback, CSK fell short as SRH held their nerve to secure a 10-run victory.
Looking ahead, Sunrisers Hyderabad will face Delhi Capitals in their next fixture, while Chennai Super Kings gear up for a blockbuster clash against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, keeping fans hooked as IPL 2026 continues to deliver both on and off-field drama.
