A fresh controversy erupted during the Lucknow Super Giants vs Chennai Super Kings clash on May 10 after broadcast visuals appeared to show a person allegedly using a phone near the LSG camp. The clip quickly went viral on social media due to the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) strict restrictions on the use of mobile phones during matches.
The incident happened at an early stage LSG innings while Josh Inglis batted. Cameras briefly focused on the Lucknow facility where one individual was seen talking on a cell phone.
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However, it is still not officially confirmed if the visuals actually came from the LSG basement, dressing room area or VIP section inside the stadium.
The identity of the individual seen in the clip and his exact role, if any, within the franchise also remains unclear at this stage.
As per the IPL Regulations for Players and Official Match Area (POMA), only team managers are allowed to use mobile phones during matches. Again, phone use is only allowed in the dressing rooms and not inside the dugout during live play.
The timing of the controversy has naturally drawn attention as the IPL and BCCI have recently cracked down on protocol violations involving support staff and unauthorized personnel.
WHAT ARE THE IPL RULES FOR PHONE USE?
The POMA IPL rules have very strict rules regarding electronic communications during matches, mainly due to anti-corruption protocols.
The issue became a major talking point earlier this season after Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder was spotted using his phone inside the dugout during RR’s clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati. Bhinder was later fined Rs 1 lakh by the IPL board.
Here are the key IPL rules regarding phone use:
Only designated team managers may use cell phones during matches
Mobile phone use is only allowed in the changing rooms
Cell phone use inside the dugout during live play is prohibited
The rules fall under the IPL Player and Match Official Area (POMA) regulations.
The regulations are closely linked to the IPL’s anti-corruption protocols
Just a few days ago, the BCCI also issued an eight-page advisory to franchises following repeated protocol violations across IPL 2026. The board specifically warned teams against unauthorized movement of personnel, access to dressing rooms and violations of anti-corruption measures.
WAS THAT PERSON ACTUALLY INSIDE THE LSG DIG?
This remains the biggest unanswered question so far.
While many social media users initially claimed that the visuals showed an LSG employee inside the underground shelter talking on the phone, others later suggested that the individual may have actually been sitting in the VIP section at Chepauk.
Some users also pointed out that one of the persons visible in the background appeared to be wearing a wristband which is usually issued to guests of VIP booths at IPL venues. The hand band made fans say the moment was from the Chepauk VIP booth. (ScreenGrab: JioHotstar)
There have also been requests online identifying the person as one of the LSG network pitchers rather than an official member of the support staff.
So far neither IPL, BCCI nor LSG have released any explanation regarding the viral visuals.
Until then, the incident remains more social media speculation than a confirmed breach of protocol.
– The end
Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
10 May 2026 21:50 IST
