Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder has been fined Rs 1 lakh and given a stern warning by the Board of Control for Cricket in India for violating the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) protocol during an IPL 2026 match.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed in an interview with India today that the board’s anti-corruption unit (ACU) sought an explanation from Bhinder after he was spotted using a mobile phone in the dugout during Rajasthan Royals’ clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati.
Bhinder responded to the ACU’s queries and explained the circumstances of the incident. However, the explanation did not fully satisfy the unit, which subsequently recommended disciplinary action.
As a result, Bhinder was ordered to pay a fine of Rs 1 lakh and was also warned against repeating such violations in future editions of the Indian Premier League. BCCI reiterated that compliance with PMOA regulations is mandatory and any violation will attract strict action.
Using the phone in the dugout triggers an action
The controversy arose after television cameras captured Bhinder using a mobile phone in the basement floor during a match between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.
As per IPL rules, mobile phones and other communication devices are strictly prohibited in the underground floor which comes under the controlled environment of PMOA. All players and support staff are required to fold their equipment before entering the venue, with limited exceptions granted only under specific conditions.
Bhinder’s actions were flagged as a breach of this protocol, prompting the ACU to step in and investigate the matter. While there was no indication of corrupt intent, using a phone in a restricted area is treated seriously due to the potential risks it poses to the integrity of the game.
BCCI’s swift action underscores its zero-tolerance approach to violations of anti-corruption guidelines. Officials have consistently maintained that strict adherence to PMOA rules is essential to protect the sport from any undue influence.
With the matter now settled, Rajasthan Royals will hope to move past the controversy and focus on their campaign in the ongoing IPL season.
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Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
17 Apr 2026 15:55 IST
