Virat Kohli has criticised what he called an intrusive camera culture in the Indian Premier League, saying constant filming during practice sessions is affecting players’ ability to prepare freely.
Speaking on the RCB Podcast, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru batter said multiple cameras now follow players even during routine training, leaving little space for private preparation.
“You walk to practice, and you have six cameras following you. It’s not a comfortable feeling,” Kohli said, adding that players need freedom to experiment during nets without being judged on footage shared online.
He said practice sessions are meant for preparation, not public scrutiny. “You judge me on my performances during the game, not during the lead-up,” he said.
Kohli called for clearer guidelines on filming and player consent, arguing that the rapid expansion of social media content around IPL teams has outpaced boundaries around player privacy.
Yaari dosti 🥹🤌 pic.twitter.com/lgdcrCTITI
— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) April 14, 2026
Referring to a recent interaction with New Zealand batter Kane Williamson during a match against the Lucknow Super Giants, Kohli said even casual conversations are now often recorded or turned into content.
“I was talking to Kane… and there’s that robot thing just waving at me,” he said, referring to broadcast equipment. “Let me talk in peace.”
Despite his concerns off the field, Kohli has continued a strong IPL season for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, scoring 484 runs in 12 matches at an average of 53.78 and a strike rate of 165.75, including a century against Kolkata Knight Riders.
