IPL 2026: RR's Romi Bhinder fined for phone breach; BCCI calls response 'unsatisfactory'

NEW DELHI: In a firm reminder of its zero-tolerance stance on anti-corruption protocols, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has fined Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder Rs 1 lakh for breaching match-day regulations during an Indian Premier League fixture.

The incident occurred during Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2026 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on April 10, where Bhinder was found using a mobile phone inside the team dugout — a clear violation of the IPL’s Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) protocols.

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ACU finds response ‘unsatisfactory’

The BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU), headed by Sharad Kumar, had issued a showcause notice seeking an explanation from Bhinder. However, after reviewing his response, the board deemed it unsatisfactory.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that Bhinder was found guilty of breaching protocol.

“The team led by Sharad Kumar examined Bhinder’s response and found him guilty. His reply was not satisfactory,” Saikia said. “As this is a first-time offence, a fine of Rs 1 lakh has been imposed along with a warning.”

Bhinder has since acknowledged the lapse and issued an unconditional apology, according to the IPL media advisory.

Strict rules, no exceptions

The IPL’s PMOA guidelines strictly prohibit the use of mobile phones and other communication devices in sensitive areas like the dugout, allowing their use only within designated dressing room spaces.

As per the rules, all players and support staff must switch off and deposit their devices with the team’s security liaison officer upon arrival at the venue. Only limited personnel, such as analysts at designated stations, are permitted to use approved devices.

The breach gained attention after visuals showed Bhinder scrolling on his smartphone in the dugout, with young player Vaibhav Sooryavanshi seated nearby.

Sources indicated that Bhinder has been dealing with health issues, which may have contributed to the lapse, though the BCCI maintained that protocol violations cannot be overlooked.