Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder came under scrutiny after television cameras caught him using a mobile phone in the dugout during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati.
In the footage originally shared by the influencer on social media, Bhinder is seen with teenage player Vaibhav Sooryavanshi by his side during Royals’ six-wicket win on Friday. Speaking to PTI, a BCCI official confirmed that Bhinder violated the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) protocol, which prohibits the use of mobile phones in the dugout.
“Yes, Bhinder has indeed violated the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) protocol as mobile phones are banned in the dugouts during a match,” a BCCI source told PTI.
“It could be unintentional but there has to be some action as it amounts to a violation. Whether it will be a warning or a ban will depend on the match referee and the ACU report. Based on that, the IPL GC can take a call,” the source added.
WHAT IS A ROMI BHINDER LIGHT?
The controversy arose when cameras caught Bhinder using a mobile phone in the basement, a restricted area under IPL rules. The incident occurred during Rajasthan Royals’ chase of 202, shortly after Sooryavanshi’s dismissal.
While it remains unclear what the device was used for, the act itself has raised concerns due to strict restrictions on electronic communications in match areas.
The video quickly spread on social media, it drew criticism, including from former IPL commissioner Lalit Modi, who questioned the oversight by anti-corruption officials.
Watch the video here:
WHAT DOES THE RULE SAY?
The IPL 2026 PMOA protocol clearly states that mobile phones are prohibited in the underground floor. The team manager can only use the phone in the locker room, but not in the basement. All players and support staff must switch off mobile phones and smart watches on arrival and hand them to the Team Security Liaison Officer for safekeeping.
Only the team analyst is allowed to use the computer at the designated analysis table. The BCCI’s anti-corruption and security unit maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards underground communication facilities and treats any breach as a serious offence.
The two BCCI anti-corruption managers assigned to the match will submit a report to the ACSU chief. Possible sanctions for Bhinder include fines or temporary suspension of the PMOA. Rajasthan Royals will look to avoid distractions as they prepare to take on SunRisers Hyderabad in their next match on April 13.
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Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
12 Apr 2026 13:43 IST
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