'Itni Der Kohli Ki Batting Nahi Dekhi': Netizens Fume At Mid-Innings Light Show In Dharamshala During Qualifier 1
· Free Press Journal
The mid-innings light show during Qualifier 1 in Dharamshala became a major talking point among cricket fans on social media. While the display was introduced to enhance the stadium atmosphere, many viewers criticised the timing and length of the entertainment segment during a high-pressure playoff match.
- like we've never seen before
A soulful musical performance followed by a captivating laser show in Dharamshala
Updates ▶️ https://t.co/9rs6u5obOw#TATAIPL | #Qualifier1 | #TheFinalLeap | #RCBvGT pic.twitter.com/P5SUA4SUkmVisit rouesnews.click for more information.
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 26, 2026
Fans criticise timing of light show
The show began with a violin duo playing tracks, followed by a light show and fireworks in a grand spectacle between innings. While the visuals were stunnings, the show lasted for nearly half an hour, with all playoff teams and the IPL trophy also displayed with lasers.
A section of viewers online felt the break lasted longer than expected and took attention away from the cricket itself. Supporters felt players spend an entire innings building rhythm, and a long interruption could impact the flow of the contest.
One user commented that the light show was longer than Kohli's innings on the day.
Telling the whole country to take austerity measure, increase fuel prices and then hold a 30 minute light show for no reason in between a qualifier match of the IPL (not even the final)
— AayushKataria (@AKTalksSports) May 26, 2026
Is it really necessary for a light show? Break players rhythm. Their eyes need to readjust. With delayed start match conditions will change esp dew.
— Santosh (@ImSantoshKan) May 26, 2026
40 minute se light show chal rha hai Dharmashala me
— Sleeping X (@just_k_18) May 26, 2026
That light show with crackers was not needed. AQI badha rahe hai udhar ka bhi #ipl_2026
— Rishi (@Rishipratihar18) May 26, 2026
Virat Kohli Creates IPL History With Four Consecutive 600-Run Seasons, Achieves Milestone In Qualifier One Against GTLight show dekhne gya tha bich bich me match bhi dekh liya !#RCBvsGT pic.twitter.com/142nhYlqtV
— Aman (@kingxAman18) May 26, 2026
Several users pointed out environmental concerns and claimed that such displays could increase pollution levels around the venue. While these reactions largely reflected fan opinions online, the discussion quickly gained attention across social media platforms.
Apart from pollution concerns, fans also debated whether the long interruption could affect playing conditions. Some viewers suggested that the delay between innings may alter factors such as dew formation.
Not everyone reacted negatively to the show. Some supporters enjoyed the visuals and praised the effort to create a memorable stadium experience.
The longest, most boring, and unnecessary light show in the history of @IPL
— Neil Dodhia (@iN3IL) May 26, 2026
Thanks @BCCI @himachalcricket for wasting time & money. Also adding pollution to the sensitive area. #Dharamshala #GTvsRCB #IPL pic.twitter.com/Ic2DKpDdMH
RCB ke momentum ki aisi taisi kardi yeh light & sound show ne lol
— Major Ram Toh KING Nikle! (@MainHoonNaStan) May 26, 2026
I bet Kohli is fuming in the dressing room, itching to just go out to play
itni der toh kohli ki batting nahi dekhi maine jitni der yeh light show dekh liya
— Megha (@kyayaarmegha) May 26, 2026
A blistering knock from Rajat Patidar, backed by crucial contributions from Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal and Krunal Pandya, powered Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a mammoth 254/5 against Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1. Patidar led the charge with a sensational 93 off just 33 deliveries, while Kohli chipped in with 43, Padikkal scored a brisk 30, and Venkatesh Iyer added 19, laying the foundation for RCB's explosive finish.