BCCI Imposes Rs 1 Lakh Fine on Rajasthan Royals Manager for IPL Protocol Breach
In a decisive move underscoring its unwavering commitment to anti-corruption measures, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has levied a fine of Rs 1 lakh against Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder. This penalty follows a confirmed breach of match-day regulations during an Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 encounter.
Incident Details and Violation
The infraction occurred on April 10 during the Rajasthan Royals' fixture against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati. Bhinder was observed using a mobile phone within the team dugout, a direct contravention of the IPL's stringent Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) protocols. These rules explicitly prohibit the use of communication devices in sensitive zones like the dugout, permitting them only in designated dressing room areas to prevent potential integrity issues.
BCCI's Investigation and Decision
The BCCI's Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU), under the leadership of Sharad Kumar, initiated proceedings by issuing a showcause notice to Bhinder, demanding an explanation for his actions. Upon review, the board found his response unsatisfactory, leading to a formal finding of guilt. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the outcome, stating that the ACU team examined Bhinder's reply and determined him guilty of the protocol breach.
"As this is a first-time offence, a fine of Rs 1 lakh has been imposed along with a warning," Saikia emphasized. Bhinder has since acknowledged the lapse and offered an unconditional apology, as noted in an official IPL media advisory.
Strict Protocol Enforcement and Context
IPL regulations mandate that all players and support staff must switch off and deposit their mobile devices with the team's security liaison officer upon arrival at the venue. Exceptions are granted only to limited personnel, such as analysts at approved stations, who may use authorized equipment. The breach gained public attention after visuals surfaced showing Bhinder scrolling on his smartphone in the dugout, with young player Vaibhav Sooryavanshi seated nearby.
Sources familiar with the matter indicated that Bhinder has been managing health issues, which might have contributed to the inadvertent violation. However, the BCCI maintained a firm stance, asserting that protocol breaches cannot be excused regardless of circumstances. "Using a phone in the dugout is a strict no-no. Given his experience, he would have been aware of the rules. It may have been inadvertent, but the board has handled it appropriately," a source told PTI.
Broader Implications for IPL Integrity
This incident highlights the BCCI's zero-tolerance approach towards anti-corruption measures in cricket's premier T20 league. By enforcing penalties for even first-time offenders, the board reinforces the critical importance of adhering to PMOA guidelines to safeguard the sport's integrity. The fine serves as a stark reminder to all IPL participants about the non-negotiable nature of these protocols, ensuring that such lapses are addressed promptly to maintain public trust and competitive fairness.
