A disciplinary incident during the ongoing IPL 2026 season has led to action against Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder, who has been found guilty of breaching tournament protocols during the match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati on April 10.
According to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Bhinder was penalised with a fine of ₹1 lakh and issued an official warning after being found using a mobile phone inside the dugout—an area strictly regulated under IPL’s Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) guidelines.
The incident was flagged by the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU), which issued a show-cause notice to Bhinder on April 12, asking him to explain the violation within 48 hours. While Bhinder submitted his response within the deadline, officials found it unsatisfactory after review.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the action, stating that although Bhinder was permitted to carry a mobile phone, it is strictly prohibited in the dugout area. He explained that the ACSU examined the response and concluded that a penalty was necessary due to the breach of established protocols.
“Considering this is his first violation of IPL PMOA rules, the committee decided on a monetary penalty along with a formal warning,” Saikia said, adding that the decision should serve as a deterrent for all IPL stakeholders to strictly follow anti-corruption and conduct guidelines.
The PMOA regulations clearly state that team officials may use mobile phones in designated dressing room areas but not within the dugout, a rule designed to maintain the integrity and security of match operations.
Bhinder, who has been associated with Rajasthan Royals since the league’s inception in 2008, is also known for his long-standing administrative role within the franchise structure. Over the years, he has remained a key support figure within the team setup, including during periods when the franchise faced suspension from the league.
Despite the controversy, the Royals continue their IPL 2026 campaign strongly, currently placed third on the points table. The team is now preparing for a high-profile clash against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens, with playoff positioning becoming increasingly crucial as the season progresses.
