Sri Lankan batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa has ignited a controversy at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 by accusing Indian cricketers of using superior bats that provide an unfair advantage. In a recent interview with NewsWire, Rajapaksa claimed that the bats used by Indian players appear to be different and generate significantly more power compared to those available to other teams. He likened the bats to having "a layer of rubber applied," making them produce more powerful shots that are not easily replicable by other players.

"Indian players have bats that are far superior to the best bats we get," Rajapaksa stated. "It feels as though a layer of rubber has been applied. I can't imagine how that's possible. These bats can't even be bought by others – all players know this".

Rajapaksa's allegations have quickly sparked debate across the cricket world and social media, with many questioning equipment standards and regulations. His remarks hint at the possibility of bat tampering or the use of specially designed equipment. The ICC rules limit bat materials and dimensions. According to ICC regulations, bats must be made solely of wood, with strict limitations on their dimensions and any permissible protective materials. Any foreign or power-enhancing substance on or inside the bat would be considered a breach of these regulations.

This isn't the first time that the Indian cricket team has faced such accusations. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, some former Pakistani cricketers questioned the ball conditions after standout performances from Indian bowlers. Similar allegations regarding pitch preparation and equipment bias have also surfaced periodically, but without any formal substantiation.

So far, neither the Indian team nor the International Cricket Council has responded publicly to Rajapaksa's claims. No formal complaint has been lodged with match officials or the ICC regarding bat inspections or equipment violations. Without any official evidence or confirmation of rule violations, Rajapaksa's comments remain an allegation rather than an actionable issue.

Rajapaksa, who is not part of Sri Lanka's World Cup squad, made these comments after Sri Lanka's 20-run victory over Ireland in Colombo. Despite the win, Rajapaksa's remarks have shifted attention away from the on-field result and onto the equipment used by the Indian team. While some online discussions have linked the claims to bat customization and brand-level differences, the core of the debate remains focused on whether Indian players have access to equipment that provides an unfair advantage.

As India continues its T20 World Cup campaign, preparing to face Namibia in New Delhi on February 12, attention will likely return to on-field performances unless the matter is formally raised with tournament officials.