Incident Involving Rajasthan Royals Team Manager
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that Romi Bhinder, the team manager of the Rajasthan Royals, violated IPL rules during a match in Guwahati. The incident occurred during the Rajasthan Royals’ fixture against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026. According to reports, Bhinder was seen using his mobile phone in the dugout, which is strictly prohibited under the league’s regulations.
The controversy came to light after a video clip surfaced on social media. The clip showed a young player, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, seated beside Bhinder and briefly glancing at the phone while it was in use. Although the moment was not captured during the live stream of the match, it sparked significant online discussion and raised concerns about the adherence to rules.
A BCCI official confirmed the issue to PTI:
“Yes, Bhinder has indeed breached the PMOA protocol, as mobile phones are not allowed in the dugout during a match.”
Rules and Restrictions
According to the IPL’s guidelines, team managers are only permitted to use their mobile devices in the dressing room. The use of electronic gadgets is restricted to the team analyst, who can access them only at the designated analyst table within the dugout. This regulation is in place to ensure that no unauthorized communication or actions take place during matches.
Potential Consequences
The BCCI has taken the matter seriously, especially since Bhinder has been associated with the Rajasthan Royals since the inception of the IPL. His long-standing involvement with the franchise means he is well aware of the anti-corruption codes and other regulations governing the sport.
A senior BCCI official commented:
“It could be inadvertent, but there has to be some action since it amounts to a breach. Whether it will be a warning or a match ban will depend on the match referee’s and ACU’s reports. Based on that, the IPL Governing Council will take a call.”
Public Reaction and Concerns
The incident has drawn criticism from various quarters. Questions have been raised about the incident, particularly given that Sooryavanshi referred to Bhinder as his local guardian after the match. This adds another layer of complexity to the situation, as it suggests a level of trust and mentorship between the two individuals.
Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi also expressed his disapproval of the incident on social media. He tweeted:
“Having a cell phone in the dugout. This cannot be allowed. Has this actually happened? Surely not! If it did the IPL governing council has to act swiftly.”
No Official Statement from Rajasthan Royals
Despite the growing controversy, no official statement has been released by the Rajasthan Royals. The team has remained silent on the matter, leaving fans and analysts speculating about the potential consequences for Bhinder and the club.
Key Points Summary
- The BCCI confirmed that Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder violated IPL rules by using his mobile phone in the dugout.
- A video clip showing a young player, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, glancing at the phone during the match went viral online.
- Mobile phones are not allowed in the dugout during matches, according to IPL regulations.
- Only the team analyst is permitted to use electronic gadgets in the dugout, and even then, only at the designated analyst table.
- The BCCI is taking the matter seriously, given Bhinder’s long association with the franchise.
- Lalit Modi criticized the incident on social media, urging swift action from the IPL governing council.
- The Rajasthan Royals have not issued an official statement regarding the incident.
