[CRK]

A Breach of Protocol in Guwahati

In a significant development for the ongoing IPL 2026 season, the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) has taken disciplinary action against Rajasthan Royals (RR) team manager Ravinder Singh Bhinder. The official was found to be in violation of the Indian Premier League’s Players’ and Match Officials’ Area (PMOA) protocols during the match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) held on April 10 in Guwahati.

The breach, which carries a financial penalty of INR 1 lakh, centered on the unauthorized use of a mobile phone within the team’s dugout area. According to the strict regulatory framework governing the IPL, the use of mobile devices in the dugout is strictly prohibited to maintain the integrity of the game and prevent potential corrupt activities.

Understanding the PMOA Regulations

The IPL’s official guidelines are crystal clear regarding communication devices. Under the 2026 PMOA protocol, it is explicitly stated that while a team manager is permitted to utilize a mobile phone within the confines of the team dressing room, this privilege does not extend to the dugout. By engaging with his device in the dugout, Bhinder acted in direct contravention of Article 4.1.1 of the IPL PMOA protocols.

The incident surfaced following the match, as photographic evidence of Bhinder using his mobile device—captured while sitting next to the young prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi—began circulating on social media. The visual proof prompted an immediate investigation by the ACU to determine the nature of the breach.

The Explanation and ACU Response

Ravinder Singh Bhinder, a long-standing member of the Rajasthan Royals setup who has been with the franchise since its inception in 2008, responded to the findings by admitting to the offense. Popularly known as ‘Romi’, he issued an unconditional apology to the governing body.

In his submission to the ACU, Bhinder characterized the breach as inadvertent. Furthermore, reports indicate that he cited personal health struggles, specifically noting his condition involving Type 2 lung failure, as part of his explanation. After reviewing the submission, the ACU deemed the apology and the explanation sufficient to warrant a monetary penalty rather than more severe disciplinary measures. However, the ACU has issued a stern warning to Bhinder, urging him to exercise greater diligence and ensure strict adherence to established guidelines for the remainder of the season.

Context of the Situation

It is important to note that Bhinder also serves as the local guardian for 15-year-old rising star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi during the IPL tenure. This added layer of responsibility highlights the complexity of the team management’s role within the high-pressure environment of professional cricket. The incident serves as a reminder to all IPL stakeholders that the ACU maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward the improper use of technology, regardless of the individual’s history or intent.

As for the Rajasthan Royals, the team remains in a strong position on the points table, currently sitting in third place. Having secured four victories out of their first five matches, the focus for the franchise will undoubtedly remain on their performance on the field while ensuring that all administrative and operational staff align with the league’s rigorous conduct codes.

Looking Ahead

The IPL has worked tirelessly to build a transparent and secure environment, and instances like these underscore the importance of these protocols. For the Rajasthan Royals, this serves as a cautionary tale to ensure that all team personnel are thoroughly briefed on the nuances of the PMOA regulations. With the season heating up, the management will look to move past this distraction and continue their impressive run in the tournament.