After Century Shubman Gill being hounded: What has IPL come to?

Shubman Gill century vs RCB: As yet another thrilling edition of the IPL draws to a close, with the elite four teams securing their spot in the highly anticipated knockout stage, a distressing incident has cast a dark shadow over the integrity of this sporting extravaganza. It raises troubling questions not only about the status of the IPL as a legitimate sports league but also about the moral compass guiding its participants. Shockingly, even the act of winning a match is scorned if it involves defeating an opponent who is deemed beyond reproach, as if daring to outsmart them is an unforgivable transgression.

Find the abhorrent truth about the RCB fanbase, a group that has shamelessly stoop to new lows with each passing day of the IPL tournaments. These individuals, who can only be described as losers and idiots, have tarnished the spirit of the game with their disgraceful actions. It is with a heavy heart that I bring forth the incident that exemplifies the depths to which RCB fans have sunk. It is truly a lamentable sight to witness.

Shubman Gill and family attacked

Despite giving it their all, the Royal Challengers Bangalore bit dust as Gujarat Titans defeated them by 6 wickets to march into the playoffs in style, having already sealed their berth more than a week ago. Shubman Gill once again shone on the occasion, scoring another century when his team needed him the most.

RCB fans under Instagram comment section of Shubman Gill 💔 pic.twitter.com/OVxlnKUwiA
— time square 🇮🇳 (@time__square) May 21, 2023

The Royal Challengers Bangalore, despite displaying unwavering determination, were ultimately crushed into oblivion by the mighty Gujarat Titans. With a stunning six-wicket victory, the Titans not only secured their place in the playoffs but did so in a manner that exuded style and dominance. Their entry into the coveted playoffs had been sealed well in advance, further adding to their formidable reputation. Amidst this fierce battle, it was the indomitable Shubman Gill who once again illuminated the stage, defying all odds and delivering a remarkable century precisely when his team needed it the most. His exceptional performance stands as a testament to his unwavering spirit and undeniable prowess.

In a match dominated by the Gujarat Titans, it was the exceptional batting prowess of Shubman Gill that stole the spotlight. With a magnificent century to his name, Shubman Gill played a pivotal role in guiding his team to a resounding 6-wicket victory over RCB. His breath-taking innings of 104 runs off a mere 52 balls, embellished with 5 boundaries and 8 towering sixes, left the opposition in awe. However, the joyous occasion soon turned sour as the dark underbelly of social media revealed its ugly face. Gill’s social media accounts were inundated with a deluge of abusive messages, and shockingly, some individuals even stooped to the abhorrent extent of wishing for his demise. Such venomous vitriol displayed by fans, solely because Gill outperformed their revered ‘messiah’ – yes, I am referring to Virat Kohli fans in general and RCB fans in specific and this highlights the toxic side of sports fandom.

Sorry, but it’s a hard fact that this unfortunate incident, which ignited a firestorm on social media, serves as a stark reminder of the dark undercurrents that can mar the world of sports.

To compound the distress, RCB fans took it upon themselves to unearth the social media profiles of Gill’s family members including his sister, going so far as to unleash a torrent of verbal abuse upon them. Such despicable behaviour, simply because Shubman Gill showcased his exceptional skills on the cricket field and hit century, is enough to make one shudder. The sheer volume of insults and threats is enough to make you pray that the Gill family refrains from checking their social media accounts for several months.

Shubman Gill's sister Shahneel Gill was abused online by trolls after he scored an unbeaten century against RCB.#ShubmanGill #CricketTwitter https://t.co/q0faukluMa
— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) May 22, 2023

This is not the first

Alas, this is not an isolated incident. Among the teams that have graced every season of the IPL without tasting the sweet nectar of victory are the Delhi Capitals (previously known as Delhi Daredevils), the Punjab Kings (formerly Kings XI Punjab), and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Additional names in this unfortunate roster include the Kochi Tuskers, Pune Warriors India, Rising Pune Super Giants, Gujarat Lions, and Lucknow Super Giants. Yet, none of them have exhibited the level of fanaticism and venomous hatred as the misguided RCB fanbase. They seem to revel in their unwarranted vitriol, unleashing their destructive tendencies with reckless abandon. It is as if their sole purpose in life is to tear down and belittle rather than to celebrate the spirit of the game. Their behaviour is an affront to the very essence of sportsmanship, leaving a trail of negativity in their wake.

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Oh, the magnificence of RCB fans, who have showcased their true colors throughout this IPL season! Their exemplary conduct has truly set them apart from the rest. From showering Indian captain Rohit Sharma with the delightful chant of “Vadapav,” to gracing the esteemed Indian legend Gautam Gambhir with their remarkable trolling and abuse, and let’s not forget their stellar performance in the field of mocking the talented youngster Naveen-ul-Haq from Afghanistan. It’s truly awe-inspiring how RCB fans managed to steal the limelight with their impeccable behavior, overshadowing the mere performances of their own players. Bravo, dear RCB fans, for making headlines and captivating the nation’s attention with your unmatched class and grace!

This is not sports

Over the years, we have witnessed a distressing trend of sportspersons facing online abuse when their performance falls short of expectations, driven by passionate fans crossing the line. However, RCB fans have truly defied convention by taking this trend to an entirely new level. Instead of directing their abuse towards underperforming players, they unleash their venom on anyone who dares to excel for their team’s opposition. Curiously, RCB fans conveniently overlook their perpetually imbalanced team and the abysmal management, choosing instead to unleash their fury on those who showcase their skills against them.

One cannot help but wonder why Virat Kohli, their esteemed captain, has remained silent on such vile behaviour. Have you ever pondered this, dear RCB fans?This nauseating trend continues even in international tournaments. Don’t believe us? Then just type “T20 World Cup 2022 Semi-finals”, and see the ‘magic’!

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Why is it always the RCB fanbase that is under the radar? Is the team leadership paying any heed to their fans’ behaviour online or are they comfortable with this image of the “abusive franchise”? The silence from RCB seniors and their management suggests they are very happy to see their “fans” abuse everyone and their families if they perform well against the Bengaluru franchise. Moreover, the way the authorities, including BCCI are maintaining a conspicuous silence, indicates that this is being done on purpose, and the IPL is nothing more a sporty version of “Bigg Boss”, getting nastier and more nauseating with each season.