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BCCI to act on RR norms violations as Parag vaping incident raises decorum concerns
Rajasthan Royals faced two disciplinary episodes in IPL 2026: Romi Bhinder was fined for using a mobile phone in the dugout during RR vs RCB, and Riyan Parag was fined for vaping in the dressing room during RR vs Punjab Kings. The BCCI signaled tougher action against teams violating norms to protect the IPL’s image, with Saikia noting protocols are under review.
Why It Matters
The incidents illustrate the BCCI’s focus on decorum and IPL image, potentially prompting stricter enforcement and policy changes across franchises.
Timeline
4 Events
BCCI secretary Saikia signals action against norm-violating teams; protocols under review
May 2, 2026
On the sidelines of the squad announcement for the Women’s T20 World Cup, Saikia said the board is reviewing IPL protocols and will decide on punishments for teams that violate norms. He stressed that actions will be taken to ensure the IPL’s image is not adversely affected.
Riyan Parag fined 25% of match fees for vaping in RR dressing room during RR vs Punjab Kings (Mullanpur)
May 2, 2026
Parag was seen vaping inside the dressing room during the RR vs Punjab Kings fixture in Mullanpur. Vapes are not legal in India, generating significant social-media outrage. The BCCI promptly fined Parag 25% of his match fees; he accepted the charges and pleaded guilty.
Romi Bhinder fined INR 1 lakh and given a warning for mobile phone in dugout
May 2, 2026
The sanction and fine were imposed after Bhinder accepted the charges and pleaded guilty. He was fined INR 1 lakh and issued a warning for the incident in the RR vs RCB fixture.
RR team manager Romi Bhinder receives show-cause notice over mobile phone in dugout during RR vs RCB
May 2, 2026
Images showed Bhinder seated in the dugout with a mobile phone, alongside Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, prompting the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit to issue a show-cause notice to the RR official. The development followed viral images of the two peering at the phone. Bhinder’s clarification was later deemed unsatisfactory by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, and the matter led to a formal fine and warning.